Gfc^

3 1833 03372 1835

Gc 942 B16b v. 2

Great Britain. General

Register Office (Scotland) The border papers

Digitized by the Internet Archive

in 2010 with funding from

Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center

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THE BORDER PAPERS

VOL. II.

To be purchased, cither directly or through any bookseller, from

JOHN ilEXZIES i CO., 12 Haxover Street, Edi>-bukgh, and 90 West Nile Street^

Glasgow ;

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#*' o.S*-'"

THE BORDER PAPERS

CALENDAR OF LETTERS AND PAPERS

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BORDERS OF ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND

Pr.ESEETED IN

HER MAJESTY'S PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE LONDON

EDITED BY

JOSEPH BAIN,

VOL. II. A.D. 1595—160^

rruLisnED by the autiiop.itt of the lords commissioxehs

HEP. majesty'^ treasury, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE DEPUTY CLEP.K IlEni3TEIl OF SCOTLAND

H. ^l GENERAL REGISTER HOUSE

EDINBURGH

1396

PKIN-TED FOR HER MAJESTY 3 STATIONERY OFFTPS BY NEILL AND COJIPA>rr, EDINBtTKHH.

lll^k^

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION.

The papers contained in this second volume embrace the period from 1st January 1594-5 till 23rd February 1602-3, thus ending a few weeks before the death of Elizabeth on the 24th of the follo^\ing month.

Since the work was first begun, the dispersed papers alluded to in the Introduction to Vol. I. have been collected by direction of the Deputy-Keeper of the Public Kecords, and restored to the series, which now consists of 41 MS. volumes of nearly equal size, instead of the old number of 74. According to this new arrangement, Vol. I. of this Calendar contains the MS. volumes Nos. 20 to 30, and Vol. II. the remaining MS. volumes Nos. 31 to 41. As all the papers calendared are in strict chronological order, a reference to the running number in either volume is sufficient to identify the corresponding original when required for collation.

As in our first volume, while there are many allusions to foreign affairs and personages of historical note, the chief interest relates to the domestic affair's of the two countries. Though Philip of Spain still prosecuted his designs against England chiefly on the side of Ireland, where Tyrone by his aid obtained some successes, he had now no soldier-diplomatist like Parma to conduct his schemes ; and on his own death in September 1598, a disappointed man, the Spanish power ere long ceased seriously to menace England. Yet the intrigues of the Scottish Catholic nobles, Euntly, Errol, and others at the Spanish Court, and the frequent reports of expeditions to be headed by the banished Bothwell, to descend at one time in Scotland, at another in Ireland, were sufficient to exercise all the vigilance

viii INTKODUCTIOJf.

of Elizabeth's miuisters till the close of her reign. The Spaniards •rained a slio-ht footing in Ireland, and Tyrone only made his final submission a few days before her death. It is not an im- probable conjecture that the intermittent fashion in which the KiDg of Scots dealt with the Catholic party among his subjects, now repressino-, and at another time overlooking, their actions, was designed both to curb the unruly spirits of the Eeforraed Kirk (or the " Religion," to give its international name), and to show the Queen of England the urgent need of establishing him definitely as her successor and firm ally, a matter in which Elizabeth positively refused to commit herself till her last hour was at hand.

Another source of anxiety both to the English commanders in Ireland and to the Scottish Crown, existed in the turbulent and warlike racesof the Western Highlands and the Hebrides. When these clans, the i\IacDonalds, MacLeajis, and others, were not at deadly feud, or separately fighting with the Scoto-Irish MacConnels of Islay and the Glinns, tTiey were ever ready to be " hounded out," in the language of the time, for a descent on Ulster, either in behalf of Tyrone or for their own hand. Such expeditions are more than once referred to in these papers, the latest being a proposal by Gordon of Gicht, on behalf of Huntly, that Donald Gorm, head of the northern MacDonalds, his " household man," should lead a strong body of Highlandei-s into Ireland to "trouble" Tyrone,^ — a curious ofler, if g'enuine, from the leading Catholic nobleman of Scotland to the Protestant Queen.

With these few preliminaiy remarks, we proceed to consider the wide field of domestic atF;urs contained in the present volume.

Chancres soon took place in the officers of the Marches. Hunsdon died in London while warden of the East March,' and his son, Sir Robert Carey, then his deputy, was continued by Elizabeth as locum tenens, without the full authority of warden,

I^fTEODUCTIOX. be

his elder brother John holding the governmeut of Berwick on the like footing. These arrangements gave great dissatisfaction to both brothei-s, who made many complaints to the Lord Treasurer and Sir Robert Cecil. The pertinacity of Sir Robert Carey in demanding a patent of otiice, at last drew on him the sharp rebuke by the Queen/ peremptorily ordering him to cease writing and obey orders without further question, for she would act as and when she pleased, knowing best what was fit for him. The language is evidently her own. Both brothers were super- seded by Lord Willoughby d'Eresby, who took office in April 1598, and held his troublesome post till his death.- Thereon the ambition of John (now Sir John) Carey was so far gratified by his receiving the patent of "Wardenry, which he held till the Queen's death, though still without the emoluments, of which he repeatedly complained to Cecd.'

The Middle March next claims notice. The long wardenry of Sir John Forster ended in his dismissal with disgrace and marks of the Queen's displeasure, in the autumn of 1595,* Ralph, third Lord Eure, who does not seem to have been over desirous of the otfice,' being appointed successor. Events justified his fears, for after a troubled oSicial career of rather more than two years, his efficiency crippled by the opposition of a powerful body of the principal gentlemen of his March, most of them allied to Forster, and the decay of able men into which Forster had allowed the country to fall, Eure, being accused of misap- propriating the pay of the extra force allowed him by the Queen, besides other charges, which do not seem however to have been substantiated, found it his best course to resign office early in

1 p. 337. - 25th June 1601.

' Pp. 783, 798. He was a man, like h'n brother Sir Kobert, who kept a sinyle eye on his o«-n interest, which the Queen does not appear to have fonrarded by reason ol relationsliip. Seeing her end approaching, and having little more to expect from her, it is far from improbable that he w;is the anonymous Englishman who had, like others, made overtures to James Vlth, and received from the King the letter of thanks (Xo. 1548).

' Forster, if ninety-four in September 1595, as mentioned by Sir K. Carey, must have been one hundred vears old at his .leath, on 12t!i January 1601-3.

' P. 54.

X IXTKODUCTIOX.

1598. Sir Robert Carey was now transferred to the Middle March on the arrival of Willoughby at Berwick, and remained as -warden till the close of the reign. Though constantly seekino- leave of absence to prosecute his affairs about Court, and complaining of his banishment to the cold and sunless north, Carey proved himself an efficient officer, and performed much food service. Some of the exploits which he relates in his Memoirs will be found among the papers here.^

The West March continued under Lord Scrope's government till the end of the reign. His disagreement with the Grames of Esk and Leven noticed in Vol. I. was greatly aggravated by their alleo-ed complicity in Buccleuch's daring enterprise against Carlisle Castle, which forms the subject of long inquiry in this volume, — and the hostility of the family of Carleton closely allied with them, supported more or less covertly by the Lowthers, who were related by marriage to the latter, and were constantly opposed to Scrope,^ though Eichard Lowther their head was styled cousin by him. Their opposition to Scrope arose most probably from Eichard Lowther having been warden for a short period on the death of Henry Lord Scrope, whom he expected to succeed. But the policy of Elizabeth was not to appoint local magnates as wardens, but men from a distance, with oue notable exception, that of Forster, which appears not to have been a successful one.

The Scottish West March, as before, was so often committed to different men, that the Englisli warden complained of the difSculties in redress thus caused. In 1595 we find Hemes warden, succeeded, in August 1596, by Johnston, who in turn o-ave place to Andrew Lord Ochiltree in December 1597, and six months afterwards was degraded w-ith the usual grotesque ceremonies, at the cross of Edinburgh, and banished, yet oddly with James's request for his good usage." Angus then became lieutenant of the We.st Marches in December 1598, retaining office till the close of 1599, when Sir John Carmichael was

Fp. 13ti-a0, 763-4.

mTKODUCTIOX. xi

appomted warden, who acted but for six mouths, being slain by the Armstrongs near Langholm on 16th June 1600.' Herrics then took temporary charge, till on 27th August of that year the banished Johnston reappears as warden with commission from the King and Council, and so remained till these papers end.

A new officer now appears for the first time formally amonj the wardens — the keeper of Liddesdale, in the person of Buccleuch, who on the downfall of his stepfather Bothwell, had managed to secure this extensive part of the Hepburn possessions with the Castle of Hermitage. Though his recognition as a frontier officer was objected to by the English warden opposite, who argijed that the keepers of Tynedale and Eedesdale should be equally entitled to hold March meetings, his right, being supported by James as a hereditary one, was eventually allowed, and the keeper of Liddesdale met on equal terms with the opposite wardens of the "West and Middle Marches.

Though his^father WiUiam was nominally warden of the MidcUe March, and survived till 1600, Sir Robert Kerr younger of Cessford, was in effect the chief officer. He, like his brother- in-law Buccleuch, shared in the forfeited possessions of the banished Bothwell. Besides Liddesdale, originally included in this j\[arch, the Lairds of Buccleuch, Femiehirst, and Hunthill were exempted from his jurisdiction."

The East M;irch as before remained under the wardenship of Lord Hume, and deputies of his own name.

The Scottish wardens were appointed on a different principle from those of England. Being local magnates, with a consider- able following of their own surnames, it was expected they would preserve order among the " broken men," or smaller clans without heads, who were especially numerous in the 31iddle ;March, Liddesdale, and east borders of the West [Marches. The expectation, however, was not always fulfilled, for those banditti were a useful force in the hands of an unscrupulous warden, as

xii INTRODUCTIOX.

tools to execute raids or reprisals in which his more regular followers did not appear, and could be disclaimed if expedient.

The chief domestic occurrences during the eight years con- tained in this volume, were the well-known exploit of Buccleuch at Carlisle for the rescue of Kinmont Will, which ended, after Ion"- nefTotiations and inquiries, in his own delivery at Berwick ; the hitrh-handed proceedings of his neighbour warden Cessford within the English March, for which he in turn was compelled to surrender himself to English custody ; the dark tragedy of the death and forfeiture of the young Earl of Gowrie ; and, lastly, the strange rebellion and violent death of Elizabeth's favourite, Essex.

Takinw these in order of date, the affair at Carlisle, when considered in the light of the attendant circumstances revealed by the lono- inquiry into them, turns out to be rather different from the picturesque detail of the well-known ballad, and though a remarkable feat, was by no means the unaided deed .of Buccleuch, whose own letters go to prove the contrary. Internal treachery, which is no unusual feature in similar cases, played some part in the affair, if the various pieces of evidence are impartially considered — and though chiefly from the English point of view, there must be a certain amount of truth in them. Long before Buccleuch's enterprise, there were many causes of offence between Scrope and him. Both were fiery spirits in the vigour of life, Buccleuch about 30 years of age, Scrope a few years older. While he never held oflice as warden of the West Marches, so far as the present collections show, though stated in the latest Peerages, Buccleuch's new keepership of Liddesdale, which placed him on equality with the established wardens opposite, may possibly have made him somewhat tenacious of his dignity, as noticed in iScrope's report to Lord Buro-hley.' This paper contained an iuclosure (no longer here) relatino- the reasons for Kinmont's taking and detention, one of them beintf for his breach of assurance at a March meeting.

LNTEODUCTION. xiii

Another ground was that Kinmont, though a follower of Buccleuch, lived within the jurisdiction of the warden of the West Marches, who was the proper officer to demand his restitution. This appears, from Euxe's reply to Burghley's in- quiry, to have been the chief ground taken by Scrope.^ In Scrope's letters to the CouncU and Burghley, on 14th April and 10th August following,- the first relating the event of the niorht before, he refers to the missing inclosure, adding that Kinmont had given an assurance that he would not break awav, thus making it unlikely that, as the ballad says, he was confined in fetters — which would have been a harsh proceeding to a prisoner on parole. This report of Scrope, written on the morning after Kinmont's rescue, contains a list of the principal assailants, and the statement that Buccleuch himself was the fifth man to enter the castle. ^ This, however, was more probably inclosed in the anonymous letter to Scrope ten days later,^ for such a list could hardly have been procured for him the morning after the assault Scrope's suspicions at once pointed to the Lowthers and Thomas Carleton, his ex-constable ; and the further dis- "closures of his informant, Richie's Will — a Grame against whom Buccleuch had some grudge — asserted the close complicity in the outrage of several headmen of the Grames, besides the Armstrongs of Langholm and Kinmont's own family. Scrope's urgency against the Grames and their accomplices on both sides of the March, is very apparent in the course of the long inquiry that followed, during which six of the chief Grames were sent up before the Privy Council and remained in London for many mouths. He felt so strongly in the matter, that he repeatedly demanded leave to resign office, unless they were condignlv punished. But the Queen and Burghley, with calmer judg- ments, sensible of the dangerous result of driving to desperation so large a body of unruly subjects, took a more moderate view than the warden, and the delinquents were sent back to their country to make their submission and promise of future eood

24th April, p. 12G.-

xiv INTRODUCTION.

conduct according to a carefully prepared form, which they did after considerable hesitation, at Carlisle, on 21st January 1596-7.' The elaborate pedigree of the Grames of Esk in the Appendix, showincr their origin and intermarriages on both sides of the Border, was evidently drawn out for Lord Burghley at this time bv one who was well acquainted with his subject. The matter thus ended so far as Buccleuch's assistants were concerned. But his letter to some great man in Scotland, with the inclosure, signed by him as admitting its truth,- frankly acknowledges the indispensable help of the Grames of Esk and Netherby in his exploit. Though Burghley appears to have doubted their aenuineness, the plain assertion of Scrope that he had the originals would seem to settle the question.^

The chief offender still remained to be dealt with, and though a Commission of both countries had been appointed in November 1596 to settle a number of matters concerning the Borders, the offences of Buccleuch and Cessford, the two " fire- brands " of. the :\Iarch, as they were styled, were expressly reserved to Elizabeth's own arbitrement. The Commission, after many sittings at Berwick and Carlisle, concluded a treaty at the latter place on 5th May 1597,' containing among other provisions, a clause for mutual delivery of pledges on each side for the quiet of the Borders, a certain number of whom were to be provided by Buccleuch and Cessford, failing which, their own persons were to be entered into England. After much correspondence, farther outrages by Cessford and "his crew,"' and Buccleuch himself, even during their sittings at Carlisle," which earned for the latter the epithet of Flagellum Dei, and procured for him a brief warding at St Andrews,'' he and Scrope had a formal meeting for jNIarch justice at Canobie Holme on 20th August 1597,Hrought about by the aood ofBces of Sir John Carmichael. This, however, was apart

' 5th September, p. 305. '■• Pp. -240-50, 20!)'

>p.	2r.S.	- 12th .h	ine
'P.:	?AG.	' P. 213.
■ Pp,	. 318, 371.	^ P. 3N5.

I>i-TRODUCTIO^'. XV

from the main question of his own and Ccssford's delivery. After an abortive meeting near Norham on 30th September between the Commissioners of both countries, for exchange of pledges, where the day was spent in idle discussion,' it was adjourned for eight days, when the long-protracted business was partly effected, Buccleuch surrendering himself, in de- fa\dt of his pledges, to Sir William Bowes, and being thereon escorted to Benv-ick by WiUiam Selby, the gentleman porter, in whose custody he remained. Cessford, however, whose turn came next to deliver his pledges or himself, was accused of getting up a tumult, which in the growing darkness nearly pro- duced a serious collision, in the midst of which he and his followers, pledges and all, rode off the field. The accounts of this affair by Eure, John Carey, and Sir "William Bowes, are very curious and .show the risks incurred at such meetings.- One singular point is mentioned, viz., an English pledge being dead, his body was brought to the ground to satisfy the letter of Border law. Buccleuch being thus secured while his neighbour warden had for the time escaped, felt somewhat aggrieved, and hostile letters passed between him and Cessford,^ which ended in a challenge from the latter carried by the Master of Orkney to Buccleuch.'' Though the officers of Ber's\-ick remonstrated at so important a prisoner being kept there so near his own country, and various inland places were named for his custody, it is certain that he remained in Berwick for the whole time of his capti-v-ity, from 6th October 1507 till 21st March following, as his keeper's bUl of charges exists to show." The King having interceded for his relief," and Buccleuch himself having wTitten a straightforward letter to Sir William Bowes to be laid before Elizabeth," offering fuU satisfaction if released on giving bis son as a hostage, he was delivered to his own people at the west ford of Xorham on 16th February, afrer executing an indent to re-enter on certain condiiions, handincr over his son, described a.s

Pp. 409-12. -Pp. 409-1^. -Pp.

p. 491. ' P. J20- ' P. 4

20tli Jan. 150:-S. p. 50!.

xvi I^^llODUCTION.

" about 10 years old, a proper and toward child," to the Governor of Berwick, and receiving a lecture from Sir William Bowes as to his future conduct, to which he made a suitable reply.^ "We do not learn how long the boy remained at Berwick, but these papers show that his father, whether profiting by Bowes' advice or for some other reason, became a changed character and concurred in border justice, with Scrope and Sir Robert Carey, receivincf due acknowledgment from both, especially the latter, for his demeanour. There is a tradition in the family that their renowned ancestor was presented to Elizabeth, who was much struck with his bold reply to her on the assault of her castle, with which the Queen had charged him. As we have seen, such interview could not have taken place during his stay at Berwick- But two years after, we find Sir Robert Carey writino- to Sir Robert Cecil," teUing him that Buccleuch had left him at Alnwick on his way to London, was desirous to kiss the Queen's hand, and that he well deserved this favour for his late o-ood conduct. On this occasion the interview preserved by family tradition might well have taken place. Buccleuch was then probably on his way to the Low Countries to serve with Count Maurice, and such an object would recommend him to Elizabeth. This foreign journey is doubtless the reason why he appears little more in this volume. With the remark that he wrote a beautiful hand, evidenced by several holograph letters, we may leave this redoubtable borderer, and notice the doings of his brother-in-law Cessford.

He seems, from various unfavourable estimates given by the Careys and Six William Bowes, to have been a man of much more scheming character than the keeper of Liddesdale, and shaped his course wiih a steady eye to his own interest. After his evasive proceedings at Norham ford above referred to, he thought it best to offer to come to terms, and next day sent Lord Hume to Berwick with proposals, himself remaining at the Bound road to hear the result. But the Commissioner,

1 Pp. 516-17. - i' >'ov. 15D9, p. 601.

INTRODTJCTIOIS'. 5VU

takinc advice with Carey and Selby, resolved to hold no more meetings with one who had thrice disappointed his expectation, and to lay the matter before the Queen for her farther com- mands.^ These caused some further delay, but in the end a formal demand was made for his delivery, and his friend Lord Hume handed him over to Sir Kobert Carey the warden, at Berwick on 14th February, two days before Buccleuch's release.' With the exception of a long report by Bowes to Cecil, a few days after his delivery, which contains a curious estimate of him, there is little about his stay in England, except a letter from Sir Robert Carey to Burghley regarding his transference to the keeping of the Archbishop of York.^ That he was sent there is certain, for Strype (Annals) quotes two letters from the Archbishop to- Burghley at this very time, as to the propriety of the captive warden hearing sermons and attending other public services, which might do him good.* He was apparently still at York on 2nd April,^ but must have been released soon after, for on 3rd June he delivered his pledges to LordWilloughby near Norham, being himself e\-idently a free man, as he writes from his house at Kelso.* These men, 1 3 in number, were forth- with sent to York Castle, joined three months later by three others for Buccleucb,' where all were kept for several years, in which time some died. The others, being nearly starved, made more than one desperate attempt to escape. On their first attempt they were recaptured, but the second was more successful, for two of Buccleuch's hostages, head men of the Armstrongs and Elliots, got away. The rest seem to have been gradually released in the course of the year 1602, not, however, till some of them had been transferred to Benvick, where several feU sick in Haddock's Hole, which must have been a truly " loathsome ". place, as asserted by Sir John Carey and others; for the prison of those days was a very different lod^-^ from the weU-regulated houses which now detain even

: Pp 419--0 ■- Pp. 513-14. = iTth F.b. 159T-S, p. 518.

> These letters are doubtless in the HattieM Collection now bemg calen,ku-«l. i p V-X4 » Pp. 504-37. • Pp- ■'i-*!. 562.

xviii I^-TEODUCTION.

the worst criminals. From several incidents mentioned in these papers, Cessford seems to have been a cruel and cold-blooded man.^ Both before and after his elevation to the peerage as Lord Roxburgh, he made proposals to visit the English Court and kiss hands. But his object being suspected as merely a desire to promote James's interests as successor to the Crown, the Queen's advisers gave him little encouragement, and there is no evidence here that he was ever received by her. After James's accession, his honours and rank were increased, and he lived to a great age, but surviving both his sons, his house was only continued in the female line.

The Gowrie tragedy next claims attention. It was fore- shadowed by the manner of the Earl's reception by the King, as related by Sir John Carey to Cecil," where James's taunting inquiry, why the ministers did not meet him, implies that Gowrie was an adherent of the reformed religion. This was soon followed by the startling news from the same quarter, that the Earl and his next brother were both slain by the King and his page, in self-defence ; and that there was a hot search made for the two youn<Ter Ruthvens, school-boys apparently, who with their tutor escaped in disguise to Berwick, where Sir John Carey allowed them to stay till he knew the Queen's pleasure.^ On receivino- this from CecO, he dealt with their tutor for their safe disposal further inland, adding, that he had not seen them since they came, so closely had they kept themselves.-* And shortly after, he reported that they had been sent off as secretly as they arrived, his servant seeing them as far as Durham, their ultimate destination being Cambridge, for study.^ This was confirmed by his later report to Cecil, where he declared that none in Berwick had seen them but himself, and that but once at midnight." Whatever the truth may be, the reports in the present collection place the worst construction

' XicoU (Diary), noticing liia Je:ith in February 16.30, calls him "a bloodie man in his voutb."

2 29th May 1600, p. 659. ^ 7_n5th Aug., pp. 676-78. ' i!4th Aug., p. 682.

' 4th September, p. 684. " 21st September, p. 688.

INTEODUCTIO:^. xii

on James's accounts of the business, which were said to be contradictory, a belief which was shared by the clergy and common people, who were very outspoken on the subject; so much so, that severe measures were taken with five of the foremost ministers, including the well-known Mr Robert Bmce.' Sir Robert Carey, writing to Cecil, gives a curious account of the Queen of Scots' favour to the Earl, her letter and bracelet being found on his person.' The inference suggested was that jealousy had something to do with his death. .-Vnd if the story, told to Lord WUloughby by a Danish messenger to the Queen of Scots, was true, her brother the King of Denmark gave little credit to the account of Cowrie's death, which James had taken the trouble to draw up for him.' The relent- less severity shown by James to the innocent members of the house, proscribing the very surname of Ruthven, seems to indicate some deeper cause than an ordinary conspiracy. It is difficult indeed to suppose young men such as Cowrie and his brother the sole devisers of a sudden conspiracy without apparent object. The Earl himself had been abroad for his education nearly six years, was a man of great promise, and but twenty- three years of age at his death. Logan of Restalrig, whose name IS joined in history with the Go^vries, and like them had the doom of treason pronounced over his bones, is only noticed in these papers in regard to other matters of little moment.^

The last domestic event of importance in the reign, the rebellion and fall of the Queen's briUiant favourite Essex, is noticed in several of our papers. Before it occurred, allusions are made to him on various occasions— his high offices, expedi- tion to Ireland, disgrace in consequence, and prospect of restora- tion to favour. The news of his outbreak, dispatched by Cecil to WiUoughby on the 9th of February 1600-1, were brought to Berwick by an Edinburgh merchant on the 13th, Cecil's letter only arriving there on the 14th.^ WiUoughby, though

Pn 6-8 T" '■ -1-' October, p. 698. ' ISth Xovember, p.

The ediwr'L dealt wuh the Cowrie trage-iy .olely as it i. pre.ent.,1 here. ' P. 731.

XX INTKODUCTIOX.

no friend of Essex, who had thwarted him on several occasions, yet wrote to Cecil with a generous estimate of his great qualities, while bewailing his fall and the charges he had made against the Secretary.^ It has been said that Elizabeth made little outward demonstration on her favourite's violent end, though it is generally supposed to have hastened her own. One reference to it occurs in her letter to Willoughby,- where she speaks (without naming Essex) of the example of one more bound than all [to her], and of the little faith found in Israel — thus rather a complaint of his ingratitude than regret at his loss.

So much then for the principal domestic incidents of the period. But there are a number of other matters closely connected with the Borders, to but a few of which the editor can do more than allude.

The town of Berwick, as the chief advanced post of England towards Scotland, is often noticed. Its state of disrepair was chronic, and constant demands were made on the Lord Treasurer for the means of correcting it. The pay of the garrison was, on the whole, made with a tolerable approach to regularity, but the victualling was a constant ground of complaint ; and if any credit is to be given to the many letters from Sir John Carey and others, the town and garrison were often not far from the point of starvation — and always scantily provisioned for a place open to an enterprising enemy on the sea. Parti- cular references are unnecessary, for these defects pervade the contents of tlus volume, and Berwick, untd Willoughby was appointed lord governor, appears to have be€n managed in a haphazard fashion. When that distinguished nobleman took office, though in broken health, he made an attempt to rectify disorder, and place the town and garrison on a more efficient footing. His experience while serving in the Low Countries, had impressed him with a high opinion of the martial discipline observed by the Spanish commanders, but his efforts in this

' 12th ilarcli, p. T35. ■ 21st March, p. V37.

INTRODUCTION. xxi

dii-ection proved ineffectual to refonn the vis inertia of long- seated custom, and he died, not far beyond the prime of life, on 25th June 1601, his plans unfinished, at variance with most of his subordinate ofiicers, too much satisfied with maintainino- the old order to agree with his views. He eflfected something however, in causing a regular muster-roll to be made of the force under his command,^ and soon after, having prepared a curious bird's-eye plan of the fortifications, gates, bridge over Tweed, &c., and improvements proposed, he sent copies to the Privy Council and Sir Eobert Cecil,- though no result appears to have followed his appeal. This plan shows the six mounts and the four gates of Berwick, with an outliae of the walls, ditches, &c., but nothing of the Castle, or the interior of the town, and makes evident the weakness of the sea-front. Per- haps the most interesting feature is the outline of the long bridge over Tweed, with its central tower and gateway. The tower may have been of stone, but the bridge was certably of timber, and a frail structure to resist the winter floods of Tweed, for it seems to have been merely supported on upright timber props, with no bulwarks to break the force of the stream. The tower, probably of stone and founded solidly, no doubt helped to hold the structure together, but it seems wonderful that the whole affair was not swept into the sea. This bridcre has interested the editor since he first studied the Scottish records. A bridge of some sort existed in the last years of Henry HI., also in 1291, and probably for most part of the reign of Edward I., but during the whole of the 14th century, a ferry boat was the only means of crossing Tweed. Before 1306, the bridge must have disappeared, as the right of ferry was in dispute between one Hayward, grantee from Edward L, and Antony Bek bishop of Durham, against whom Hayward success- fully claimed before Edward II. in 1311 ; and his heir, one Bernard, succeeded in keeping it under Edward III, tul Eichard bishop of Durham again disturbed his possession, whereon he

' loth June 1508, p. 540. ■ 10th September, pp. 560-1.

xiii .INTRODUCTION.

petitioned the King, who on 20th April 1345, sustained his grandfather's grant, ordaining that Bernard should hold the ferry till a suflBcient horse and foot bridge was buUt.' A new ferry boat is mentioned, in 1362, and the last notice is a grant by Richard II. on 30th August 1395, of the ferry of Berwick- on-Tweed to one John Sparowe, for life.' These records are silent from this date till 1509, and the earliest subsequent notice observed by the editor, is the breakdown of the bridge, by Norfolk's army invading Scotland, when many men were drowned and hurt.^ There appears to be no information in the latest history of Berwick on the date when that bridge was constructed, or when it was replaced by one of stone, though it might have been expected there would be something in the town records on these points.

The parish church seems to have been a rickety structure, and inadequate to the population. It replaced one, said to be " as fair as any in England," taken down by Henry VIII. for the fortifications, and was probably a makeshift building. In 1584, the Mayor represented it to be very small, cracked, rent, and not able to hold the sixth of the people, whereby, during divine service, the alehouses were too much fre- quented, and petitioned the Queen for money to build a new one.* But though recommended by Hunsdon, nothing was done, and in January 1598, we find his son Sir John Carey reviving the question, and telling the Privy Council that the church was so old and weak, and surcharged with out-buildings of timber to eke out the accommodation, that on any little blast of wind, both preacher and congregation ran out of the place " even at sermon time," to save themselves from its ex- pected fall.^ In spite of this renewed appeal nothing was done ; and two years later, under Willoughby's government, when he proposed to apply the goods of Harding the customer, who had

' Calmdar of Documents (Scotland), YoL III., Nos. 1422, 1443.

- Ih., Vol. IV., Xo3. 68, 467.

' 22nd October 1542, HamiUon Papers, Vol. I. p. 279.

* Border Papers, VoL I. p. 143. ' P. 505.

INTRODUCTION. xziii

died intestate without heirs, towards building a new church, the proposition was violently opposed by Sir John Carey, who had laid hands on the money (nearly 1900Z.) ostensibly in his official capacity on the Queen's behalf, but evidently in the hope that he would get a gift from the Crown of the balance (which he represented to be small) after paying the debts of the deceased.^ The contest was violent, and the Lord Treasurer Buckhurst, no friend to "Willoughby, intervened, siding with Carey.- How it ended is not clear; but if Willoughby's account is credited, Carey used rather sharp practice, bringing forward his wife and a stranger as pretended next of kin, scoffinof at "Willoughby's plan to build a church as a mere wish to thwart him, and evidently meaning to apply the money for himself, telling Cecil, in his first application, it would buy his daughter Anne two or three gowns, as she was in the Queen's service, and " very chargeable " to him.^

The casual notice of the Berwick bell, evidently a racing trophy in Willoughby's hands, is interesting/

Passincf westwards along the Border, we find the castles of Norham and Harbottle were in almost total ruin ; the former, in much the same condition as now, and the necessary rebuilding estimated at nearly 1800?., though the reporters reduced the cost of the most needful repairs to less than one half.* Thia was by no means agreeable to the Queen, who on Sir Robert Carey pressing for a decision,* told him roundly that she would crive nothing, and that his father should build up the house, seeing the oreat commodity he had of it." To this Carey demurred, and, his father dying within a fortnight, nothing more came of it. Nor was an}.'thing done for Harbottle. The house at Hexham, which Forster occasionally occupied while warden, though he most commonly lived at Alnwick Abbey, was partly blown up dnrino' Eure's wardenry.' The Editor is not aware whether or not it was the picturesque building that still stands

■ Mav 1600, pp. 6.56-0. = Julv-Aa^^st, pp. 66a-70, 674-5. ' P. 657.

>■ 22iid April 1600, p. 645. ' December lo9o, p. 91.

8 29lh March 1596, p. 117. ' 9th Juiv, p. 154. » loth March 1596-7, p. 2S.i.

xxiv INTRODUCTION.

near the market-place, called the Moot Hall. If so, the square massive tower a little to the east may have been the gaol of which Eure so often complained. Both are conspicuous objects in this old border town.

Carlisle Castle, as formerly, does not appear to have cost the Crown anything for repair. The lesser fortresses, Rockclrffe, Bewcastle, and others on that march, were probably seen to by their keepers.

Another minor occurrence may be noticed — a second hunt- ing- on Cheviot, though unlike the more celebrated affray between Douo-las and Percy, it has found no minstrel to chronicle it. Some Teviotdale gentlemen, Rutherfords, Kers, and Douo-lases, not exceeding 60 in all, unarmed as they asserted, though the English warden said there were 200 armed, having hunted for two days from the head of Kale water along the March, were attacked by a superior body of 400 men, under Fenwick of "Wallington and Henry Woodrington, two of Sir Robert Carey's deputies, and chased four miles into Scotland with some hss ia killed and prisoners.^ The business caused much bad feeling, Cessford himself held a formal inquiry at Jedburcrh," and the result was the imprisonment of the two English leaders for a considerable period.

The aversion of Elizabeth, especially in her latter years, to any of her subjects holding vmauthorised intercourse with the Kino- of Scots, or in any way treating him as her possible successor, is shown on many occasions ; and her wardens, in addition to their constant search for seminary priests and other emissaries of Rome, repression of recusants and the like, were strictly charged to prevent any of their subordinates trafficking on their own account with James. Besides other instances on the East March, there were several among Scrope's officers, the most remarkable being that of Henry Leigh, at one time much trusted as his deputy-warden, who went off very secretly to Scotland,^ and in the course of a few months found himself a

August 1598, pp. 551, 552, 556-7. " 9th September, p. 559.

"^ ' 17th September 1599, p. 624.

LNTEODUCTIOy. xxv

prisoner in the Gatehouse.^ From this prison he addressed a long exculpation to Cecil, who had ordered him to relate all that had passed between himself and the King, and also the attainted Francis Lord Dacre, then in Scotland.' The account of his travels — his several interviews with James — description of his Court and Cabinet— and of what the Kino- called his " crack" with him' on many subjects, is veiy curious ; also with the banished Dacre and his son, then nearly of age, and the latter's desire to return to England, not to marry a Scottish wife, as his father wished him to do/

That assassination was recognised, so late as the close of the sixteenth century, as a fit mode whereby an English sovereign might rid herself of a powerful enemy, who could not be reached by other means, is apparent from the offer by Lancelot Carleton through Lord Thomas Howard, to deliver the person or head of the rebel Tyrone to Elizabeth/ He had made the same offer before, by means of the chief of the MacLeans, whom he calls " Sir James," but MacLean's death had stopped the plan/

Carleton now renewed it on occasion of the deadly offence taken by Angus MacConnel of Kintyre and his son Sir James, who considered themselves defrauded by Tyrone's giving Dun- luce Castle to their near relation. Sir James MacConnel of Cully- lungart, son of Sorle Boy, and here called "Macksurle Buye." Carleton hoped to effect the business by Angus's son Sir James, if he would take it in kand, adding that O'Donnell,' his consin- german, then in Spain presumably on Tyrone's behalf, might be induced to help. He desired Lord Thomas to lay the plan

• I2th April 1600, pp. 643-4. - Pp. 648-54.

' A well-known S<x)ttish phrase for a confidential talk.

' Tliis son and his sisters are omitted in 17k; Complete Peerage of " G.E.C."

» 17th Joly 1602, p. 792.

« This most probably was Sir Lachlan MacLean; chief of his clan, who was killed in a fi^ht in Islay on 5th August 1598, showing the date of the first scheme to have been earlier.

" Probably Hugh Roe ODonnell, prince uf Tyrconnel, whose mother was one of the MacConnels or MacDonaids of the Isles.

xxvi OTRODUCTION.

before Mr Secretary, and consult the Queen as a matter of state, also putting it before Scrope, though they were no great friends, who wrote to Cecil for his view on its fitness.' The scheme was evidently thought quite proper to be submitted to the Queen, giving a curious insight into the statecraft of that day.

The exigencies of space forbid more than a mere allusion to the disputes between the King and the Kirk on Church govern- ment ; though one incident is worthy of special notice — their quarrel about English play-actors,' the Kirk's anathema against their performing, and the King's contrary command. This feeling towards the stage continued strong till a recent time, and is stdl by no means unknown in Scotland.

From the diversified contents of these papers, which must be, in the main, studied in the Index, it may be seen that the office of a "Warden of the Borders, while one of great power and dignity, was no bed of roses, exposed as the officer was to enemies outside, and un-fidends within his charge. With the death of Eli2abeth the powers of her wardens ceased, and no such officers were appointed by her successor, in the changed relations of the two countries. But the predatory habits of the March-men were not so easUy got rid of, and were long a standing menace to law and order in these wild districts. On 25th February 1605, the King appointed a commission to take order on both sides of the Marches, which dealt sharp justice to many of the freebooters whose names have figured in these papers ; many sufifering the last penalty of law, whUe many were deported. FuU and interesting information on their procedure is contained in the report on Lord Muncaster's MSS.^ prepared by the present Deputy-Keeper of the Kecords.

With these Border Papers ends the period of 300 years, durinc which the two kingdoms maintained a state of open or covert hostility to each other. Though another century was to

1 26th November, p. 811. - November 1599, p. 631.

' Hist. MSS. Cffm., 10th Report, part iv. pp. 229-73.

INTEODUCTIOX. xxvu

pass before their fall union, and their forces were to meet in battle on more than one famous field, the union of the crowns did not fail, though by slow degrees, to pave the way for that of the nations. In spite of jealousies at the King's leanings to his own countrymen,' peaceful intercourse, though often interrupted, in time produced its natural effects in preparing both nations for that close community of interests, the full value of which is apparent at the present day.

Since the Editor was appointed by the Lords of Her Majesty's Treasury to conduct these researches in the English Archives, he has received the greatest facilities from the successive Deputy- Keepers and their assistant officers, which he now begs specially to acknowledge.

It is almost unnecessary to add that his own official Directors, Sir Stair Agnew, K.C.B., the Head of the General Register House, and Thomas Dickson, LL.D., the Curator of the Historical Department there, have taken great interest in the progress of his work. To the latter gentleman, on his late retirement from the office which he has so long and ably filled, the Editor's warmest thanks are due for the sagacious advice on many occasions, which Mr Dickson's scholarship, sound judgment, and wide knowledge of Scottish history enabled him to place unreservedly at the service, not only of his friends, among whom the Editor is happy to number himself, but of all who seriously consulted the records in his charge.

J. B.

London, Deceviber 1S9-5.

' One of the earliest examples being the appointment for life, as Master of the Rolls, of Edward lord Brace of Kinloss, the first Scotsman who held that office, whose splendid monnment still adorns the Rolls Ch.npel. Notices of this atatesman occur on pp. 5.37, 730, 734, of this volume.

CALE^^DAR OF BORDER PAPERS.

[1594-95. Jan. 1.] 1. The Mayor, &c., of Berwick to Lord Bueghlet.

H • " In all humblenes shewithe unto your honounible lordship, the Mayor burgesses and cominultye of Bern-icke," who have been long suitors to her Majesty to relieve the decay and poverty " we " are fallen ^nto, by want of the traffic of merchandise between England and Scotland, which by statnte ought to be exercised here for benefit of the town : also the want of the pastures granted to us by King Henry the Eighth, withholden by the victualler, "in value j)€r annum 100 ponndes : likewise the decay of the whole fishinges in Tweade, the salmon yearelye taken dothe but defraye the chardges " — thus her highness's rent of 1 40/. per annum is lost. We have not the less sustained farther loss of 60/. yearly, serving her ilajestys household with salmon at " under prices." Further we have for these seven years made great payments to ir Hethe and his executors for these fishings, and we owe great debt to the fishmongers, " which grewe upon us " by our long suits to her Majesty as aforesaid "More ver (which is moste lamentable) the veryc barte of this comonwealthe, which was our cheif staye and upholde, ys eaten out by the guarrisons, who beinge for the moste parte maryed and so srreate families, will not be contente with there wages, which is many thou- sandes yearelye out of her Majestes treasure, but doe occupye all mannary scyences, and take the benefitt and use of our preveledges and pastures, we beinge a great nomber livinge without paye. Also this towne standinge in the outplace of the lande, invironed with a barren and verye poore soile, dothe not yealde anye revenewes towardes our comon chanlge as other townes in Englande, but everye poore man dothe open his pnrse to contri- bute thereunto." All which matters need honourable consideration, albeit we have hitherto endured, finding some relief in our own " travell in the ferme of the custome," which we enjoy by your honour's favour, albeit greatly wronged by untrue informations. Humbly beseeching your lordship not only to uphold us in the said " ferme," being poor people inhabiting a place of so great importance, and charged and wronged as aforesaid, but al.-so your help in some other things which may be found very serviceable to her Majesty and beneficial to " posteritye to come." Siijnnl : Thomas Parkinson maionr; Will'm Morton, Edwarde Mery, Thomas More, .Jhon Denton, Crastofer Morton, Hughe Fuell,"* Robert Ja.xson,* George :\rortoun, John Orde. John Rogers, Tho. Hogg,* Henry Rugg. Charles Hasloppe, Andrews Skeall,* Thomas Read, John'Shotton, " balives." Rob'. Case, John Satenrett,* Henerey Scaresbreck, Earty C?) Bradfurth, George Thompson,* Robart Morton, John Hixe, Harry Mansell, ^X"\ Tuppy, "WiU™. Gibson.

1 ;). Broad ■<h<"it. H'-'OiM : To the L. Bur-hley, L. high treasurer. Intlorsed. 1594-95. .Inn. 1. 2. John Haedlng to Bckghley.

I received enclosed in a letter from the surveyors, one from your honour to the Mayor here, discharging him of the f.irimng oi the customs.

CALENDAE OF EORDEE PAPEES.

with a copy to myself for my direction — but albeit I delivered your letter to bis own hands, he will take no discharge, but denieth before the Governor that your honour hath sent him any, and will not permit me to execute your pleasure, unless I allow him to receive the farm as before, which I dare not do.

There are ships here ready, and hides and sheepskins to be shipped, also goods by land, which must therefore stay till your pleasure is known.

The Mayor continues to intermeddle with " custome cawses," and will not permit me to receive her ^Majesty's due, unless your honour directs " M' Governor " to assist me.

As the Mayor alledges that the book which I sent up for the half year ended at ]\Iichaelmas last is not true, but made " by gesse," I beseech your honour to appoint some fit persons here to cast up the same, now in a chest locked up in the ofEee, that the truth may appear.

The Mayor's private gain cannot abide that the Queen's right be known, but seeks " to smoother " the same by sending up a book for his own pur- poses with his assistants, whereof I humbly crave trial.

I thought it my duty to send your lordship this quarter's account, as the Queen is to receive the same, and that you may see " I doe not passe hir Majesties inheritance by gesse," as the Mayor says. I am bound to reveal the truth, and therefore incur their displeasure who should assist me. But I Lave no fellow officer, for the comptroller is absent, and the searcher is rather for the flavor than the Queen. Berwick. Signed : Jo. Hardinge. Christmas quarter | Custom, 356/. 13.->. 7d., ( Berwick — sum ending 24 Dec. I Allowance 242/. 9s. Id., J total, extra et 1594. ) "Neate" 114/. 4j. Od. ( intra.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Waj'ei- signet. Jan. 4. 3. Peter Fayrley to Burghley.

It is most untrue, as her Majesty and your honour have been informed, that the townsmen here have received 1000/. for the customs in the half year ended at Jlichaelmas last. For in a book sent up lately to the surveyor by John Harding the customer, he certifies there has not been 300/. received, which is much more than the truth. For his book "is devised of his own brayne," without comparing it with the original in the office here, which we shall "disprove." The cause of the said half year's customs "arysinge to more in truth then heretofore or hereafter is to be looked for, was by reason of the baptisinge of the younge prince of Skottes, which made more'trafique by the meetinge of forreine states, and mauie other of their owne lordes and people." The customer envying our state, has told many untruths against us. We humbly pray your lordship to commit the hearing of the matter to the deputy governor and council of Berwick, and meanwhile, till "good matter be found against us worthie to estinguishe our farme," we may be continued according to your former orders. Signed : Peter Fayrley " for and in the name of the Maior and Corporacon of Barwick."

1 p. Addressed : To the Lord High Treasurer. Indorsed.

Jan. 6. 4. SiK Egbert Cecil to Lord Sckope.

Because my father's hand is not well, I am commanded to write thus much as to the lettere brought to Mr Curwynn by a Scotsman. — "That because the partie who writt the lettres is partlie knoweu to my lord, or at leastwise well gessed at (being one whom for diverse causes hee would be gladd to lay hold on), yf your lordship can so handle the matter (bv your tender dealing with the poore man whom you keepe in warde) as to' make him confesse who he is, and where he is resident most comonly," some plot

CALENDAR OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

may be laid to bring him to a. honse on the Border and apprehend him, it will be acceptable service. Otherwise it is to no purpos.e to keep the poor man in ward, if you know nothing else against him.

l p. Oficial draft. Indoned : "6 Jan. 1594. M. to the Lord fcjcroope."

Jan. 13. 5. Works xt Berwick.

Note of decays most needful to be amended. Extracts.

The loug bridge over Tweed — the joints and braces shrunk, with the " pillers and defenders " in great decay, and part carried off with great storms and ice. The whole was estimated at ISO/., of which there was spent in 1593 and 1594, 120?., so there remains of the sum allowed 60/.

The Cowgate, now of firboards, in great decay and very weak, noisome and dangerous to that side of the town, and subject to surprise by the enemy. Also the bridge there of firboards is utterly rotten, standing on " proppes," and if it falls as it soon will, there will be no passage that way, either for the " scowte watche " at night or the soldiers and warders in the day, or for cattle or carriages. The cost is estimated at 320Z. Three smiths' "forges in the "newe palkice" or office of fortification, one already fallen, will cost 25/.

Total, 405/. 10s.

The vamures of the old town wall and new works, "which weare lyned and faced onlie for the brickes, which are nowe rotten and fretted awaye " — are greatly decayed and in places quite down, and so low that men may step over them into the flankers and come up again — a thing dangerous to the town, and also to the soldiers on watch at night, who are blown over the wall to their deaths or maiming. Also sundry places in the old town wall next Tweed in great decay from the beating of the surges in storms, and overhanging so that they will soon fall. The estimate of the above is omitted, for they daily grow worse, and no certainty is possible. But if your lordship would cause some part of the 1500/. allowed yearly for works and eitra charges over the pay here, to be applied on such needful works as the Governor and Council here approve, it would shortly beautify and strengthen this town, and save her Majesty great charges— for when such decays happen, before the same are reported and authorized, the ruin so increases that what might have been done for 20^. will cost 10/. And whether anything is done or not, her Majesty allows the said 1 500/., and great part of it remains yearly in the paymaster's hands. Sifpied : Jhon Carey, John Crane, Will'm Acrigge.

3 pp. Indorsed by Burghley : " 13 Jan. 1594."

Jan. 1". 6. John Carey to BuEGHLEr.

I received your honour's three several letters — one from my lords of the Privy Council which I have herewith answered — one from yourself of 27"" December and another of 1"' -January, both received within an hour of each other. In your letter of the 1'', you write that the Mayor of Lynn was to send a ship to London with victuals worth TOO/, for our relief. Two little ships from Lynn came in on the S"" with victuals for the palace ''prest by the Maior," whereof I enclose a note of the masters' names, Ac. — but there is nothing for the horse garrison who are in most need and not able to keep their horses without supply from the palace. If any of them is the ship your honour writes of, she is come. 1 have delayed writing to your honour, expecting M' Vernon who is not yet come.

I must deal plainly with your honour, as my duty to her M.ijesty binds me. I fear M' Vernon cannot go through with this matter, he is so tar

CAiJOT)AE of:boedek papers.

behindhand with alL And this town cannot long stand thus, fed "from hand to mouthe " as it is, if any danger should come. We should have by the book of composition, victuals continually in the town for 1500 men for a year. And so Sir Yalentine Browne had in his time. This man at his entrance received 6000 qrs. of grain, at 46-. or 6^-. at most per qr., besides 3000 at the Holy island, which Sir Valentine sold to the country. We are now far worse, and where Yernon complains of dear years. Sir Valentine desired them, for then he gained most. I assure your honour it is only Vernon's want which will overthrow this town, and rather than it be in my time " I wold to God I had bene dead before I came." I will also remind you 'that the purveyor of beef and mutton only continues to provide till Lady day at my request, in hope of Vernon coming to satisfy his covenants if not, we shall have no more.

On receipt of your letter of 28'" December, I sent for the Mayor and dis- charged him of his " ferme," also giving charge to the captains to prevent any passage out of the gates ; and " invested the customer absolutely in his office " as directed. But if it so hold long, most of the townsmen will go " a begcnn<j" ; for their fishings failing as they do, and now this little relief to thei'r credit bein" taken away, I know not what will become of them.

I enclose such Scottish news as I have. Their gatherings it is feared may cause quarrels presently, but I have sent one " of purpose to see " and will report shortly. . ,„,,,,

I have taken the musters and view of the garrison on the 8"", and enclose the defaults thereof to your honour. Berwick. Signed : Jhqn Carey.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet.

Inclosed in the Ibove : —

(1) A note of two ships that came in with provisions for the " Pallace" iP' January 1594.

In the Gyfle of God of Lynne, Balthezar Lancelot master, burden 44 tons ; 100 quarters wheat

In the Gijfte of God of Lynne, Thomas Billye master, of the burden of 60 "odd" tons; wheat, 210 qiiarters ; malt, 60 quarters; butter, 50 "firkens;" "cwls and lings," 1200; " hoppes," 2000.

h p. Indorsed.

(1) Defaults of the muster taken S"" January 1594, before John Carey esq., deputy governor.

Absentees with and without passports, from the -companies of John Carey, Sir William Reade, and six other captains, the gunners, ordnance artificers, horsemen and pensioners — in all, 51. Signed : Jhon Carey, .John Crane. ' Xoied at foot h>j Burgldeg : " In garrison 617."

2\ pp. Imlorsed : " Barwick. The defaultes of the musters taken there viif' Januarij 1594, and certifyed to the right honourable Lord Hnnsdon lord governor there xiij^ Januarij predicti."

7. The Mayor, &c., of Ber^vics to Burghley.

We hear that the governor here is devising with one Peter Dealavell, a merchant of London and others, to obtain the victualling of Berwick, and thus cross the town. Yet if by vour favour, the town obtain it, these effects would follow. First— The security by our lands here, our friends in tlie country, and if required, the town of Lynn would join with us. Secondly

The town's privileges would ever keep a full store in the palace, whereby

a hard time Uke the present might be easily put over. Thirdly— The pay- ment being so sure to- the town by the receivers, would enrich the town, enlarge men's credit, and give rise to general nourishing. Fourthly— Con- tinue''love and amity between the townsmen and garrison, to their godly comfort, aud restore "to the town sundry privileges and pastures "plouckte"

CALENDAE OF BOEDEK PAPEES. 5

1594-05.

from them for long. Fifthly— The increasing wealth of the town would save her ^Majestj'a pnrse in many ways, and do such good as your honour may conceive more than we can declare. Whereas on the contrarv, one private man may get and carry away wealth, as Sir Valentine Browne' did^ or be " crossed by God and overtaken in there course, as yi' Vernon is "— and the town kept in misery, which, with pardon of your lordship, is not to be suffered. We trust in God and your lordsliip, in this, and our other cause the " ferme of the custome," which has done good both to oar liberties on the border hand, and her Majesty's benefit, but by the contrary course now taken, will both come to nothing and redound to our loss.

If your lordship st^md with us for the victualling, we shxdj send up the Mayor and recorder to remove any objections in ourcontnuy, and otherwise arrange this weighty bargain with her Majesty. Berwick 'The Mavor and aldermen. Sitpied : Thomas Parkinson maior, Will'm Morcon, Edwarde Mery, George Moortoun, Jhon Denton, John Ourd, Thomas More. 1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

•Tau. 16. 8. Robert Vkrnon to Burghiey.

As I have bought all kind of provision for Berwick at Lynn and Hull to the value of 1619/. Vis. id., as agreed with the Mayors of Lynn and Hull, by the copy of particulars enclosed, I humbly beseech your honour to help me in payment with 1000?. from her ^Majesty, to be repaid by the receivers out of the next pay for the half year ending at the Annunciation taking order for the balance myself. And if your honour stand so much my good lord therein, I would Day the ilayor of Lynn 600?. and the Mayor of Hull 400?., or Lf your honmir wrote to theai favourably, that thev should wait till the next receipt shortly after Lady day, seeing they have wot such great prices, — though they would rather have' a short date, as your honour wrote they were to have ready money, which I was fain to agree to at the time.

I thank your honour for your goodness in my great distress, and beg a continuance of the same in my long suit to her ilajesty, which M' John Stanope tells me she has referred to your honour. Berwick. Signed : Robert Vernon.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Armorial wafer siijnet. Inclosed in the above : —

Provisions made at Lynn and Hull for the Queen's garrison at Ber- wick by virtue of the Lords of the Council's letters of 18"" December 1594 directed to M' Boston mayor of Lynn, and iP Robert Tayloor mayor of Hull. At Lynn, — Booght of Comellius de ]N'eve, 142 qrs. 1 "combe" wheat, 242?. 15.,'.; 64 qrs. malt, 61?. lO.'j. Of John Knappe of " Ipswitche," li.) qts. wheat, 2.53?. \bs. Of Thomas Clabeme, " Island codd," 1000, " denarij," 42Z. Of John CoUingwood, " laknd fishe," 200, 10?. Of Richard Wilkin- son, 50 "firkins" batter, IQl. Of Richard Gierke, "Engiishe hoppes " 2000, " denerie ■" 30?. Sum total, . 675?. 16j,'. S-?.

At Hull, — Bought of M' Anthonie Cole, 100 qrs. " white rj'e " at 2Si. 8t?. per qr., 143?. 6& id. Of M' Robert Dalton, 40 qra white" rve at i&s. Sd. ." le " qr., 56?. 6s. S-?.; 20 qrs. wheat at 34^;. Sd. "le" qr., 34?.'l.3.-'. 4f?.; 40 qrs. malt at IS*. 8d. " le " qr., 36/. 6.5-. Sd.: 20 qrs. "pease" at lis. Sd. " le" qr., 14?. 13.-,-. 4.?., in all, l-!4?. Of Richard Atkinson and Edward Tripp of Barton, 120 qrs. wheat at 33.s. 4i?. a qr., 200/. ; 240 qrs. malt at 206-. a qr., 240?.; 120 qrs. pease and bean.s at 16.-'. a qr., 96?., " in all " or^Ql. Of William Richardson, 3000 of " Wardhouse codd,' 105?., 600 "Shetland codd" at 15?., in all, 120?. Sum total, . 9-t3/. 6s. Sd.

1 p. Indorsed.

5 CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPEES.

1594-95.

Jan. 17. 9. John Carey to Burghley.

In answer to your honour's letter of the 10"", where your lordship writes you are glad the full pay is made, and desires to know how Master Vernon or his " debetey " were satisfied for their victual before delivered : you will please to understand that whosoever is left unpaid, Master Vernon is not, for every half year he makes up his books for victuals delivered or any other credit to the garrison, long before the pay comes to the town, and goes and receives it continually of the receivers at their " audites " in the country, that he may make his provision "at the beste hand." In my last, I sent your honour a note of what store he had here and how much of the several kinds of grain ; since which there is no more come. Your lordship tells me to cause him to pay for the provisions he lately took up at Lynn under the Privy Council's letters. When I began this letter, he was not come to the town, but I presently hear he is come and sent your pleasure to him. He asked me to stay writing, and he would answer your lordship in all points himself, and says there is great store of all provision coming, whereof you will hear from time to time by me. I hope it may, but as yet there is nothing come for the horse garrison, to their utter undoing if not remedied presently.

Your lordship writes you are partly of my opinion as to M"' Vernon's disability, and requires me to say who it is that would take upon him " to perform that bargayen." It is one ilaster Peter Delavell, a gentleman well qualified, sober, discreet, very careful, honest and well experienced in such like affairs ; for every year he buys great quantities of grain for himself by reason of certain salt pans he has at "the Sheldes by NeweeasteU ; " and has been a merchantnrading for 10 years at least in the East Countries and other places. And he and his friends are able on a little warning, to furnish the town with 1000 quarters of their own store, whatever should happen on a sudden, and that very near the town. He trades much at sea with 4 or 5 ships of his own. Isotwithstanding, if your lordship does not find him every way sufficient when you talk with him, as to finding security, let him have no favour for my " moshininge him." And I would be a suitor still for M'' Vernon to continue it, if he will commit no more faults.

For my opinion as to the Mayor and corporation having the " doinges " thereof : with pardon be it spoken, the truth is it were the best way to over- throw both town and garrison and deceive the Queen mightily. I speak from daily experience of them, and find them very proud and poor, careless of their credit, cunning and not to be trusted. Your lordship has some proof that they care not what they promise, so they keep nothing, and no man can get their own of them, for the Queen can neither get her rents nor com- position of fish for her house at due times, " but bey peasemeales," and with great trouble and much ado. I know divers who have bonds of the Mayor and corporation, -who were "as good" have nothing, for they can neither get payment nor justice. I know no man who has to do with them but is weary and undone, if it be any great matter. I have more complaints against them than any others. The garrison I can rule, but can do no good amongst them, and I am exclaimed against for lack of justice, which I cannot help, for they never think but how to get into their hands. So I can never consent to their having anything to do with her Majesty's stock or store. It would set them all together -by the ears, who should be chief, and they would never agree. So I have given my simple opinion as your honour commanded. Praying God most humbly of his " infenighte " goodness, to restore your honours health. Wishing to God that I might have " part of your payenes that youer lordshipe myghte therbey have ease." Berwick. I have sent a messenger to Lord Hume, on whose return your honour shall be advertised what foUows. Signed : .Jhon Carey.

'2{pp. Hohrjraph. Addrefne'K Indorsed. Wafer signet : a "unan.

CALENDAE OF BOKDEE PAPERS. ■ 7

1504-95.

Jan. 20. 10. Scrope to BusGHLEi'.

As your lordship loog ."iince signified to me by lettar your wisli to relieve the distressed estate of IP Henry Leigh; if it could be done without charging her Majesty'.s purse, and I iind be can serve no longer without present comfort, I propose the following course for consideration. Since my entrance to office I have not been burthensome to the gentlemen of the country by calling on them to lie on the frontier for defence, and would promise neither to do so, unless to days of truce, or on urgent need, if they in lieu thereof would agree to contribute "such benevolence" yearlv, as might enable "SI' Leigh to continue his service in office. I therefore beg your lordship to send some such letter as yon thinli meet, under your and the rest of tiie Council's hands, addressed to the gentlemen and freeholders of Westmorland and Cumberland, requesting them to levy amongst them and pay to JP Leigh such certain sum as they may yearly agree in for the above purpose. Praying your reply with all convenient speetl that his .straitened estate may be relieved, or otherivise I cannot continue him in her Majesty's service. Carlisle. Signed : Th. Scroope. \^ pp. Addres-sed. Irulorsed.

Jan. 20. 11. Scrope to Sib Robert Cecil.

Since receiving your letter of 6*'', I have examined and " travelled " to find from Marshall the Scotsman, the name and places of usual resort of " the partie." The poor man protests and I think truly, that both himself and Adam Corson who gave him the letters to deliver, have been " abused " by the Englishman who sent the letters. Both JLarshaU and Corson are merchants in Dumfries, and ^rshall says that since his warding here, his brother and Corson have tried without success "to apprehend the Englishman who delivered the letters to Corson at " Kirkowbraye " in Scotland, when they were by chance drinking wine together. Corson nev:;r saw the man before or since that day. He called himself "Hebburne or Abeme," Jlarshall thinks. This is all I can get out of this " simple pore man," who I think without my privity, by his friends' search has '.' scarred " the English- man out of these parts, but \vt11 do my uttermost to get him into my hands.

Lord Herries on the 7''" hereof wrote to me that the King had appointed him warden opposite, and desired me to meet for stay of outrages. Eut as my Lord Chamberlain and yourself declared her Majesty's dislike to him, I refuse meeting till 1 receive instructions therein, but have replied that I will keep order in the meantime ; and beg your reply with the Queen's pleasure.

I pray you to deliver the inclosed to your father on behalf of Henry Leigh, and your favourable word for him. Carlisle. Siijned : Th. Scroope.

2^ pp. Adlressed. Indorsed. Enrlosimj No. 10.

Jan. 22. 12. JoHX Carey to Bcbghley.

I had hoped that M' Vernon's coming would have done good, but I fear not, for he has taken order with the petty victuallers that every company shall be rated according to his composition, which ("albeit the poore sowles are forced to nndergoe by reason of his want "), was never heard of before.

Though he may by his ^eement with her ifajesty tie them to these strict rates in the composition, yet, as your lordship knows, it will be hard for poor men with households, wives ami many children, to be forced to taki? a penny a day in bread, and another in beer, and so on in the rest. Fijr, my lord, I take it that these rates were set down in war time and the like, and not in peace. The palace was intended as a help to the soliiier, and nuc a plague to the town. For if M' Vernon forces this composition, he will in

CALENDAK OF BOEDER PAPEES.

a mauner alter the garrison. For though the Queen's composition be only for soldiers, aud thi^ enough, yet there are many old soldiers, and others once in her Jlajesty's service, long married with many children, and so the palace must either feed more mouths than soldiers', or younger men put in, and the old " put to -tuere shiftes." Your honour would pity them if you were here to hear the complaints and moans that I do. For Vernon does not do his own part, though he ties them to theirs, for his bread and beer is "verye nought and yll." And he has yet neither pease, oats or beans for the horse garrison, who are forced to buy in the country at market rates — a greater hindrance to them than the want of their two years' pay. If not cared for, I shall curse the day I came here, for I shall be remembered as " a moniment of yll, that fayne wold doe good."

As I fear things will go no better with M' Vernon when this provision is gone, I have thought good to present the gentleman of wbom I \vrote to your honour before, that you may confer with himself, and examine his sufficiency and ability, and give your favour as you iind -him deserving of it.

If the Ipswich merchants come to your honour for payment of their corn taken at the Holy Island for this town, I have the money ready which M' Clopton left %vith me rather than carry it back with him, and will pay it on sufficient warrant from them.

All is quiet in Scotland I hear. The King means to come next week to Lothian and Spott, Sir George Hume's house. Berwick. Sifjned : Jhon Carey.

2\ pp. Addressed. Ivdorsed : " W John Carey to my lord. By JI' DelaveU whome he recommendeth for the victualinge there." Wafer signet : swan. %

Jan. 20. 13. ScKOPE to Sir Eobekt Cecil.

As Lord Berries has again written to me for a meeting, I beg you will acquaint my lord your father therewith, and signify her Majesty's pleasure in reply to my former letter, as soon as convenient.

I had arranged for redress with the Laird of Buccleuch, keeper of Liddes- dale, and sent my servant with letters to conclude on justice. But found he had ridden to E'linburgh and is still there. I have not yet had his answer, though my servant left the letter. with his deputy, declaring my "towardnes to concurre with the Lard in justice at lardge." I inclose a letter lately sent to me. Carlisle. Signed : Th. Scroope.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Jan. 30. 14. Vernon to Burghlev.

I have received your honour's letter dated 24''' instant, and you shiU receive herein a certificate of the provision here and what is coming, sufficient to serve the garrison till Midsummer. I have also sent William Vernon to provide malt, pease or beans. "Wheat I hope to have " better cheape" at Easter. Some pease, " not muche," is come for the horse garrison, and more is looked for, with which they are content, so I trust your honour shall not be troubled farther.

I still beseech your honour for the letters to the Mayors of Lynn and Hull, to forbear demand ot payment for the provision made there till ne.\t receipt, or an advance from her .Majesty in part payment as I lately wrote for.

I am ''righte sorye" that her Majesty hearing of my insufficiency, hath commanded your lordship to discharge me. who have served her now ilS years (IS or 19 here), sulfering many lo.sses both by sea and land, and by not receiving my half yearly payments under her Majesty's grant, and though I have been a humble suitor to her for these 6 or 7 years, have never to this

CALEXDAE OF BORDER PAPERS.

hour received any relief. If it please her to consider me her old servant by your honour's means, I doubt not still to serve her here by the ■^race of " God.

Before receipt of your letter I had written my humble petition to your honour and the rest of the Privy Council, which you shall receive herewith, beseeching your furtherance therein, as it will be no great charge to her, and enable me to pay what is due her, on my giving up this place, and di.schap'e those gentlemen bound for me.

My allegation at first that my man received so much money and promised to furnish the provisions, " was noe fained thinge," but I have his own letter to witness it. I humbly beseech your honour to be my wood lord in these matters as you have ever been. Berwick. Siijned : Robert Vernon.

"2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer siijnet {as he/ore).

5;m. 30. 15. Verxon to Bukghlev.

I send my humble petition to your honour and the rest of the Council praying your favourable furtherance.

I send enclosed the numbers that I continually maintain and keep in wages here, " whether they worke or playe," which I am forced to do lest I want them when I most need them — to show your lordship my great charge and the smallness of the rates.

For aU the want here, no one in pay but has had more than his allowance if demanded— the meanest soldier has had lid. weekly in bread, at 24 oz. for a penny, and other victuals within the rates, and the captain and officers " treble the rate."

I beseech your honour to stand my good lord at this time, and from hence- forth I shall take so strict a course that you shall find " you have done for a gratf-jll man," and if I continue in this place, I purpose God willino-, hence- forth * to truste none but mysellf." Berwick. Siijned : Robert Vernon.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Signet as last.

Inclosed in the above : —

(Vernon's petition to the Privy Council.)

Representing that for IS years he has served the garrison of Bervvick at the following rates, ci:., with good bread 24- oz. for \d. ; good beer at 30s. the " toun," the same being made of 12 bushels good malt, and 1 bushel of wheat "for head come"; good beef and mutton "one with the other," from Christmas till Midsummer at \^d. the pound, from Mdsnmmer till Christmas at \\d. the pound; butter at 606-. the barrel; cheese at 40s. the " wave" ; Ling at 14<f. " le pece," and cod at 10c?. ; pease or beans at 12^^. the qr. ; and " ottes" at 4s. Sti. the qr., always full weight and measure, often to his loss ; and borne all manner of charges and wages in the victualling office, and losses by sea and land to great sums as he can justly prove. He prays them to move her Majesty in consideration of these and " this deare yeare," to grant him a lease in reversion of IQQl. per annum, and to lend him for 2 years the sum of 2000/. to be employed in victualhng the garrison and re- paid by the receivers, also that all his " ministers " in the Queen's pay at Berwick may be placed in the companies and serve the Queen without farther charge to her, he finding sufficient men for watch and ward, or goin^ out on service for the tima Or if the Council like not his proposals, but desire to take some other course for victualling, as he hears some are seeking it, then he prays them he may be accountable since Michaelmas last, and to move her ilajesty to allow him all losses that he can prove he has suflered through her grant not being performed to him, or by losses at sea, or the smallness of the rates. Prays the Almighty to grant each of them in the life to come "an imortall crowne of glorye." Not sijned.

1 A pp. Broad sheet. Heaiied : To the Privy Council Indorsed.

10 CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPERS.

[159-4-95. Jan. ] 16. Offences of Valentine BKo^vNE and others.

The offences of Talentine Browne and others committed against the Queen within his account, for which they have merited great punishment besides restitution of the waste of her highness's treasure.

Extracts.

Valentine Browne — [under 12 heads — double pays — dead men's pay — taking Scottish money out of the Queen's treasure, and thus extorting bs. in the pound from the captains — offering lOOi!. to Johnson the surveyor to join in cheating her Majesty of 500Z. conduct money to labourers and workmen, which -Johnson is ready to prove— selling stores unaccounted for, ic]

" The said Browne and Owin Claiden " — [under 6 heads — charging for a shipload of grain as lost, -which they sold, proved by Row the purveyor — 373 qrs. of corn, 4 " flikkes" of bacon, &c., converted by Clayden to his own use, proved by Row, &c.]

"Thomas .lenison tlie controller" — [Under 7 heads — irregular books — payment of more wages than the clerk's and surveyor's books show — prac- tising with Johnson to alter his books, -which he refused — entering Browne's carts iu the pay books, longer time than they served — converting 6 " fodder" lead, half a ton Spanish iron, 18 shovels, &c., out of the stores to his own use without warrant, &c.]

3^ pp. Indorsed {as title).

Jan. ] 17. Declaration by Veenon.

The charge of the stock received at Berwick, &c. "as praysed.'' Stock received from Sir Valentine Browne . . 9,60-4Z. 10.--. 5d.

Against which there remains in Berwick provision

worth 1,398Z. ; good debts due to Vernon 1,000?. ;

Browne's debts, not yet received by Vernon, who

has the bills and specialties, 439/. 12s. 5d. ; due

on the 2 years' pay 438/. Os. Gd. . .Total, 3,275/. 12.*. 117.

Losses by the enemy — 2 ships with malt taken by the

Spaniards — and 1 ship with salt from Rochell . 1,240/. los. id.

Losses by tempest — 1 ship with wheat and malt,

sunk at Holy island — another coming from

Norway vnth wainscots and deals — a third at

Hartlepool \vith wheat — the two last his own

adventure — in all . . . . 1,140/.

His losses by not receiving his money half yearly

under her Majesty's grant . . . 1,200/.

His losses in the " two deare yeares " 1586 and 1587.

in bread and beer only . . 2,500/.

His losses in beans, pease and oats, i-iz., is. each qr. of

beans and pease, and 5s. of oats, for these 1 9 years 1,000/.

Also in these 19 years, in the service of beef and

mutton " at so small rates," ri:., 150/. yearly . 2,850/.

Also under the Queen'.s grant, he should have had the

same stock as -Sir Valentine Browne had, but

wanted great part for years, and still wanteth,

to his lo.ss of ." . . . 1,000/.

Loss in victualling the Queen's ships [the Fm-exighte

and Dreadenouffhte], by command of the Council

[in anno 1576] .... 60/.

And in provision for 2000 foot and 500 horse, for 2

months, who when they came lay in the country

and spent little of his provision . . 200/.

CALENDAE OF BORDER PAPERS.

[1504-95. Jan. ] He is like to lose this year in serving the garrison at

so small rates 1,500?.

Total, 11,450/.

" Summa totalis of the remaine, debts and losses " 15,66S/. 6.-;. M.

2 pp. Indorsed.

( 1 ) A more detailed note of these losses and proofs.

3 p2>. I-ndorsed.

1594-95. .Tail. 18. Aktificees' &c., wages undek \ES^•o^■.

" In the Pallace at Barwick — Artificers and dalye laborers, ther

waidges for the daye." Bakers -ivith a " fnmer," 6 ; " master brewer " and 5 others ; a cowper and "dreaman"; 6 " turners " of grain ; achief miller and 2 others for the wind- mill, 1 for the malt mill ; 2 butchers, a carter, a porter, 2 field keepers, a pur- veyor of beef at 1 Id., and a purveyor of grain at 2.--. 6(i. Total 21j>-. 2d. ;>t dieiv. Memoramlum. — The Council and captain have met and heard "your honours " letter read touching the receiving victuals by proportion according to the rates in all kinds, and say they are not to be " tyed " to take of all, but only of what kind they will, and leave the rest I p. Indorsed: also noted hij Burjhley. (I) Another copy.

•Tan. 31. 19. John Carey to Bukghley. ^ To-day at Lord Hume's request, I met him near the " Bownd roade,"

where in conference he used these words " or such like in generalitie." — That the King had sent him to let her Majesty know that she was the prince he was most bound and beholden to, and loved and affected her above all in the world, and desired " a more assured lynking together," by yielding to anything she should desire at his hands, and desired she would try him in some secret matter, which it would please her at any time to send down to mo ; and has given Lord Hume his warrant under his hand and seal to follow whatever ^course her JIajesty desires. " But I pray your honour take no further holde on me herein, bat as one that hathe it from the mouth of a nobleman of Scotland." He says he will do anything for the good of both countries that her Jlajesty commands, and if I would meet the King at his house of Dungla^ on Saturday next, I should hear as much from the King's own mouth : " which I refused."

I have sent M' Vernon the letter inclosed in your letter to me of the 24"' " even nowe " received. I have also sent for the customer and the Mayor, to find if it is true as your lordship says, that the Queen has lost 200/. this last half year, by the town having the "customshipp." The Mayor can sav nothing till M' Fairley the town clerk returns, and the customer affirms what his book certifies. So matters wait M' Fairley's

return, with whom it seems your

lonishio has taken some ortier.

As to the late great assemblies of the King and his nobles in Edinburgh, they have been but dumb shows, like many before. The chancellor was either to have been put down and the Council of State altered, or aU parties to have been reconciled. But nothing but factions continue, as their wont is. " , . , . . ,

" Touchiu" the latter part of your letter wnenn your honour wntes of tlie mariad^e of vour daughter the Ladye Vere, I am gladde .is a feeling member of your lordsfaipoes joye. and rejoice at her ladyeshippes good fortune in preservin'T your honou^ life so longe, wherby thimpenections of her father

CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPEES.

shall be no blemishe to her honour, whome I pray God make as happye a couple as ever were of that name. Being also very gladd that her llajestie will vouchsafe so honorablye to solempnise the matter with her royall presence, which will be I dare saye a great comforth to your lordship and a great honour to the yonge couple." Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

The comptroller and surveyor have requested me to inclose their certiticate of necessary reparations for your timely answer therein.

Lord Hume has " even nowe " ridden to Edinburgh ou a report to him in the Merse that Cesford and Buccleuch had taken the porters of the abbey "ate, and made the King prisoner in the Abbey. I know not the truth, but Hume is gone upon it : still I doubt the news.

21 pji. Addressed. Indwsed.

Jan. 31. 20. Veknon to Bueghley.

E.xplaining the disposal of sums due to him by the receivers at Michaelmas last, 2048/. in all, whereof he "did not finger one penny." Thankini' his lordship for his good favour and comfort in his necessities ; and if by his means he finds favour for his fault, he hopes never to commit the like again. Berwick. Signed : Robert Vernon. 1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Jan. .31. 21. Provision at Berwick.

Note of grain received in the Queen's palace at Berwick since 24

December 1594, and what is brought and to come from Hull. Received between 2" and 30'" January 1594, out of " the Clement of Welles, WiUiam Pyne, master, the Gwifte of God, Balthazar, master, the Guifte of God, William Morgan, master, the Katlierine of Hull, Frauncis Hodgson, master," in all, wheat 360 qrs. 4 bushels; rye 95 qrs. 3 bushek ; malt°144 qrs. 3 bushels; pease, 19 qrs. 2^ bushels.

Provisions bought, yet to come from Hull : —

Anthony Cole, merchant, 100 qrs. white rye. Of Richard Atkinson and Edward Tripp of Barton 120 qrs. wheat; 240 qrs. malt, and 120 qrs. pease and beans.

Butter and fish at Berwick. — Island cod at 120 "le hundrethe," 1,200; Wardhouse cod at same, 4,700 ; " lynges " at same, 200 ; 60 " firkins " butter.

1\ pp. Ivdorsed.

Feb. 3. 22. Johm Cakey to Burghley.

Having occasion to send a packet of letters out of Scotland " by M' Bowes his man " to his master, I have to excuse my fault in reporting the King's capture by Cesford and Buccleuch, which arose oat of a great fray in Edinburgh that day "betwene the Master of Montrosse and Sir James Sandelaudes — wherin were great partes taking, and many men on bothe sides

30 as it is thought, ther was very neare an hundreth pistol shott, shott

amon'Tst theme. Sir James Saudelandes him self is shott in three severail places twoe in the head and one under the pappe," but is not thought in danger of death. The fray grew so great that the town rose in arms and "all the ports were shut Then I take it, some country men seeing the tumult, and not knowing the matters, brought the report about the King to Lord Hume. Other things might help it, "as thErle of Argyle, TuUybame, Grant and the shreiife of Eyres being commytted to the castle of Edenbroughe, and Athell, Lovat and MacKennye, being commytted to Lythcoe : who albeit

CALENDAE OF BOEDEK PAPEES.

1594r-95.

they are for other matters commytted, yet thes sturres wold suffice to bread contrary rumors and reportes." 'WTierfore I pray you pardon "my over haistie advertismentes," for Lord Hume upon them went to Court, which "the easylier" deceived me. But whoever writes of Scottish aSaiis must sometimes write either very "tarde," or sometimes false, "so nncerten are there actions." Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

1} pp. Addressed. Iwlorsed.

Feb. 9. 23. Verxon to Bueghley.

I perceive by your honour's letter of the 3'' instant, received this day, that "they of Hull" have been with your lordship for money for their provisions, though the most part is not yet delivered, and while the JIavor would needs have payment on the last day of January, yet the most of them were content to wait till the " nexte audicte," which I assured them should be the furthest day.

I have been troubled with an ague and dare not venture to ride post, but on my own horses, craving pardon for the delay in attendance on yon. ' But by the grace of God, I intend seeing forward to-morrow morning.

I answered your honour's former letters, and how the money due to me at ifichaelmis last was disposed of, and trust you have received it with my humble petition, wherein I pray your honour to stand my good lord with the Council, and doubt not if now relieved by your good means, that I will never trouble you with the like, and be thankful for the same durin" my life. Berwick. Signed : Robert Vernon.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer armorial signet. Feb. 10. 24. JoffN- Caret to Burghley.

At M'' Vernon's request I send his letter inclosed, and also explain to your lordship why I have not yet answered your letter of lO"" January signed by yourself and Sir John Fortescue, regarding the matters disputed between the customer and farmer here. Your letter was not delivered to me by M"' Fairley till the 3'^' instant, whereupon I called the ]\Iayor and customer before me, and restored the former to tlie execution of the custom, taking bond of them under the town seal for 200 marks, to make o-ood to her Majesty all that they remit to the merchants from Christmas " forward " till your farther pleasure.

The farther delay in certifying your lordship of the customer's books (of which you sent me copies to be " tryed " with the original) was, first the ilayor required to confer with his brethren, and they could not find a " wise man " among themselves to represent them, but sent to Newcastle for M'' Sanderson or M'' Felton, which I think is only to win time, for anv "indifferent man" would do. I have chcsen for her Majesty M' Comp- troller and myself only. Their man is not yet come.

I am out of hope of amendment in the victualler's office, it gets daily worse and worse. His presence here docs no good, for beer that used to be l.j.-;. a hogshead, is raised to 20i-. " readye monye, or none to be had." There is no great fault in this, for he need not brew strong beer unless "he list." But the bre\ving of this strong beer to get ready money for his own use, hinders the soldiers getting their small beer as they should. So they are forced either to buy his strong beer, or the ale brewed in the town. " whicli bothe caryes the price of Vyl. the quart.' As for the horse corn and other provision. ",we are fedd only with hope." 2Sothiug else comes.

For Scottish news — the King has been o or G days at Dunglas and Spott, and I hear is about returning home. Hercules Steward and two other of Lord B.nhweH's men have been taken by means of M'' John Colville and

L4 CALENDAE OF BORDER PAPERS.

1594-95.

William Hume. But I thint it shall prove " amallye " to the hurt of Hercules Steward. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer sif/net : a .man. Feb. 11. 25. John Carey to Bttrghley.

iS^ow that I have written on her Majesty's affairs of this town, your lordship wll give me leave to bewail a little my own estate, for I have none but her J[ajesty and you to trust to. I have been here now almost two years as my father's deputy, by her Majesty's appointment, which I willingly accepted, having ever had a " thristing " desire to be employed anywhere to do her the best service in my small power, which showed itself in coming hither, leaving wife and children " at all adventures," besides seUin" all I could, and making honest shift to maintain myself here. Then my wife borrowed money to come to me : but how or in what state my children are, I know not. I left besides " all my small litle " to the trust of servants, to my g:^at losses, regarding it not for her Majesty's service. 1 have had nothing from my father but what he gave to my brother WUliani Carey, who lived here at little or no charge, viz., " the demaynes of Norrham " and captainship of 100 men, which he bestowed on me for my maintenance here under him. Now " I understand by my brother Sir Robert Carey, that my lord hathe bestowed upon himself, not onlye the tythes of Norrham, which he had by lease from the Deane and Chapter, but also the captenship and demaynes of Norrham ■with all the royalties therof." And as my lord had this last but at pleasure, Sir Robert has made him move and get a grant from her Jlajesty (as he writes to me) : which if it be so, I beg your honour to procure my revocation, as I cannot do her Majesty service, if my maintenance is taken. If it be not " alreadye past," then I request that I may hold what I have in possession. It would be a disgrace to me serving her Majesty here, to have it " pluckt owt of my handes (and especially by myne owue brother, at whose mercie I must be if he have yt) whether I shall at any tyme ryde over the bridge or noe (for over the bridge all is his "). You see how hard the world goes, when he must seek so fai-, and can find nothing but what his ovra brother has !

" Pardon my rudenes (good my lord) being touched to the quicke with this, and much worse which I will conceale." Praying your wisdom may cover my follies spoken in grief, and find me a remedy to relieve or return me home, where I can shape my life and living, and to hear from you as soon as may be. Berwick. Siijned : Jhon Carey.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Sican wafer sir/net.

Feb. 15. 26. John Carey to Botghley.

Having opportunity by means of sending " M' Bowes his pacquett," it is my duty to certify that M'' Sanderson of Newcastle is now come wherebv I hope with expedition to advertise the truth of the controvers on the customs, having waited all this time at the Mayor's request.

I received this day by Cuthbert Armorer a letter from the King of Scots which seems to confirm what Lord Hume said to me about the conference. The principal under the King's hand I have sent to my lord my father, not to offend him, for he is very angry with me for some other causes " best knowue to' himself," and therefore ask your lordship's pardon for sendini; only the inclosed copy.

I also prav for some answer to my last touching Norbam : for 1 have taken too great pains and ended too many causes, to be turned out without just cause.

CALENDAR OF BORDER PAPERS.

For Scottish news : there is likely to be great quietness, as it is said the Earls of Huntly and Arrell are to leave the country by 1" March — but I think it a mere report. The King is to go to Stirling on ilondav ne."j:t to solemnise " the natyvitie" of the young Prince.

Hercules Steward has been twice examined by the Council, but confessed very little. Many make great means for his life, and he is not thought in peril.

The Duke was looked for in Edinburgh on Friday last. He has protected most of Huntly's friends, as Cloynnye, Geithe, Abbergeldy, &c., if the King like the composition.

The Queen and the Chancellor are made friends, and on Thursday or Friday he kissed her hand, and had familiar speech.

BottweU is stUl in Caithness, but if Hercules Steward who had gathered some money for him, had not been taken, he would ere this have left the country. Berwick. iS<V;7ze(7 .• Jhon Carey.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer siijnet. Inclosed in the same : —

(The King of Scots to Carey.)

"Traist freind we greit yow hairtly weiU ... we have thocht meit and expedient conforme to the conference betwixt o\it trusty and welbe- lovit cosen the Lord Humme and yow at your last melting, upon some maiters concernyng the advancement of our service, to desjTe yow maist eirnestly to gyve credyt to him thairin as to ourself. And whansoever he or any in his name shall crave your assistance for the furtherance therof and effectuatting of that which may bread our speciall contentment, that ve wilbe ever readye to concurre with him, either by yourself or those whome chefely yow may command. Thus trusting ye wUl doe, as we shalbe ever maist willing to doe yow whatsumever pleasure may be craivit of us, we commyt yow to Godis-most hply protection. From our palece of Halv- ruiJhowse the xij"' of Februar \50i. Your very loving freind, James E."" 1 p. Copy bij Carey's clerl. Addressed: "To our trusty freind John Carye esquyer governor deputy of Barwick." Indorsed.

Feb. 20. 27. John Caeey to Bukchley.

Having on the IS" hereof got together before myself and the ilayor, the farmer of the custom, and her Majesty's officer the customer, with M' Saunderson for the farmer, and M' Crane comptroller, for the customer, we opened the original books and the customer's copies sent down by your lordship ; " trying them thorow worde by wonie " to the end. We found no great difference in the entries of the quantities and kinds of cloth. But in the rates we found great difierences — iP Customer putting his values a great deal too high, as the following rates will show. First, — " broaddothes and carseyes " set down at full rates, without allowance to the merchant, as usual in other English ports, or any regard to '' the former and auncyent customes and priviledges of this towne ever heretofore allowed (as appeares by there auncyent bookes of the custom howse)." ' He has also " rated his freseadoes " at 6a SJ. the half piece, dz. every 1 2 yards,, while by the book of rates it is but 3.v. <)(/. So in every pack of " single freseadoes " his value is IZs. id. too much.

He also rates " fustians " at Zl. a piece, while in the rate book " ^Miilau fustian," the be'st, is rated but at 20s. So his rating is iQs. too much.

He^also. rates all " Scotes linneu clothe" at 6/. the hundred, while in the rate book, "through all England, " Holland ciothe ' is but 51. the hundred, " Kentishe clotiie " 4S;>-., and '' Crest clothe '' but 40^., and here they aifirm that the former ollicers never rated Scottish cloth above 40s.

CALENDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

It is further found that for every pound set down in his book as received . " in the nete " by the farmer, he has only had it " after xij Atchisons to 'the shilling," losing iu every pound is. of exchange, the shilling being at 15 " Atchisons" here, which is but 16s. in the pound to him.

Further he charged in his book 4 trunks and 10 packs, some of which were passed by Thomas Fowlys and Robert Jowsey for the King, by your warrant to me ; and others for Lord Hamilton and the Laird of Wiemes^all passed by warrant without paying custom to the farmer.

All which sums when cast up, greatly diminish his book valuation. The farmers also are in great fault from not observing your directions in the book of orders, which I hope they will amend if continued.

In reply to your lordship's question, whether the custom should be resumed by her Majesty or left at farm 1 I have little skill in these matters. Yet I will say that the fanners by their diligence have increased the rent greatly

and I am sure of this, that whoever comes here to take the uttermost of

the Queen's due under the book, will shortly get very little. For such is the misery of the Scottish merchants, that during this " litle contraversie," the farmer asking them to make the money he receives " currant," and instead of 12 "Atchisons " to the shilling, to make the rate 1-5, they utterly refuse, and tell him to let it alone, or they will find some other way. You will see little has come this last quarter — whether the Queen gets the benefit elsewhere, I know not.

1 pray your lordship to let me hear touching N'orham — if it is passed or not. For if passed, I must be a suitor to the Queen that she or my lord will give me some other allowance. For it is not 244?. a year " thrice tolde " that will keep me here in her service. If not gone, then that I may keep it as I do now, not wishing it out of " my lord's" hands. Sir Robert Carey livin" so far of, can hardly attend to the daily trouble of the causes among them which I have to determine. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

3 pp. Addressed: Indorsed.

28. CRiME AND Sanderson to Bdrghlet.

Reporting their eiamination of the customer's books as in the preceding letter, — under seven heads. Berwick. Signed : John Crane, He. Sanderson.

2 pp. Written hj Crane. Addressed. Indorsed.

29. John Hardinge to Bcrghley.

Defending his high valuation of Scots linen cloth, and offering to prove he is ri"ht. Also accounting for the diminution of custom in last quarter — and that the Queen sustains no loss thereby. Berwick. Si'jned : Jo. Hardinge.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

30. The Mayor, &c., of Berwick to Bukghley.

Your lordship has heard from Mr Governor and the two gentlemen who examined the books, of the customer's overcharges, and other errors, done to prejudice ns. His " troblesome questions " as we hear, have driven merchants to find other ways over the Borders, which is very likely, for since Christmas neither he nor we have received " one grote." And though the surveyors agreed to write to your lordship, — after hearing the discussion in the office between us and the customer, that the Queen's certain gain would arise 'oy continuing us in the "ferme,"as you have been pleased to do with an improved rent — yet ii'' Blande and " this customer " dream of a better course, -viz., to resume our liberties and disappoint us of the benefits of

CALENDAR OF BORDER PAPEES.

the statute 22 Edward TV. "(which God forbiJe)." If they could, her Majesty's profit would pass over the March, or be put in the purse of corrupt officers, and the town brought to nothiug. The wardens have certified our services on the border by ourselves and friends at our common charge, and we sustain other losses, as ids. on every barrel of salmon for the Queen's household, and lOOl. yearly by want of our pasture grounds in the victualler's hands. We have obeyed your lordship's orders not to prejudice any other port, or meddle with sea traffic, and the occasion of the great rise last half year was the baptising of the Prince of Scotland, as formerly mentioned. We shall also observe the ordedy keeping of the books hereafter, and in all things humbly refer ourselves to your lordship's wisdom. Berwick. " The Jlaior and aldermen." Signed : Thomas Parkinson maiour, WiU'm Morton, Edwarde Mery, Thomas More, Jhon Denton, Thomas Hogge,* George Mortonn, Henry Rugge, Crastofar Morton, Hew Feuell.

1 p. Addressed. Indmsed.

Feb. 23. 31. John Carey to Bukghlet.

I have received yonr ^ietter of I-d"" and am greatly bound for your favour. You forbear dealing in my private cause till you have "some second special] direction," fearing lest in doing me good you cause greater offence than you can remedy.

Thus then it stands— when I came here, my father gave me the domains of Norham, which my brother William had from him. I have ever since taken such pains there (more than with Berwick) in deciding their contro- versies and doing justice among all in Norham and Islandshire, that there is such love among them to me, and such knowledge of their causes in me, that I am more perfect in doing them good than any other can be " a great while.". But I know not why, unless on some displeasure or wrong informa- tion, my father has without my privity, taken it from me and given it to Sir Robert Carey, who I hear has also her ilajesty's grant. ^ Now my humble request is this, that your lordship would stay her INIajesty's hand from pass- ing it till she hear more And that it may be Ijept secret, that I have no farther displeasure.

There is little stirrin:: in Scotland. Hercules Steward the Eari BothweU's brother, and one Williajn Svms his butler, both taken by M'' John Colville and William Hume (who promised them their Uves) were notwithstanding hanged lately in the market place at Edinburgh. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

2 pp. Addressed. Jmhrsed.

Feb. 26. 32. Blanid and D.iwss to Bukghley.

Profit of custom in the port of Berwick for the half year ending Michaelmas 1594.

" Copie "—On jr Chancellor's signification of your pleasure to us vesterday, we have considered the points of ir Carey's letter to your lordship on the controversy between the farmer and customer of Berwick, and finding that the customer's entries touching the quantity and quality of the goods, ic, are true, we have for voox satisfaction rated the same according to the custom of London and other 'por^ and find that lor all the goods mwards and out- wards, it amounts to 1045?. 4.-. 5d., besides the goods for the King and others discharged bv voor warrant, not e.xceedmg ;5o7. os. 10,?. "The said sum of 1045? 4^- Id arises chieflv bv the custom oi cloth earned by the Scots from London and other places in England, not by fustians or Imen cloth -the custom of which in the half year en.ling ilicbaelmas last, comes but, to

18 1594-95.

CALENDAK OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

57Z. 10s. 3d. towards the above total. And so, like M' Carey, we leave the determination to your lordship's consideration. "W". Bland, J°°. Dawse. By the customer's book the half year at bis rate

comes to 1097Z. 4s. Ud.

As cast up by the surveyors here, only So the difference of their rating is .

1045Z. 4s. 5<7. 521. Os. 6d.

1097Z. 4.S. llri. " This was prepared for M"' Chauncellor, but for haste sake 1 send it to

)U."

1 p. Copy. Indorsed : (as title).

33. Custom of Bekwick.

Note of alterations in the rates charged corn, hides, and sheepskins.

Sum for the half year and quarter, 153?. os. 2

1 p. Indor

g and short cloths, sed : "The accownte which is to be charged Feb. 1594."

ilarch 7. 34. John Carey to Burghley.

JP Vernon and most of his officers and petty victuallers, including his chief officer " bis cozen " William Vernon, " being gone from hence," with his purveyor of beef and mutton, who told me he would victual no longer than Lady day, unless some new order was taken, I caused the controller and such officers of the palace as remain, to go in as secret manner as might be, and take a true view of the store now left. Not going myself, for so many would have gone with me, that it would have bred much talk and mutinous speeches if things had not been found there according to covenant. He has accordingly made the inclosed certificate, setting down the propor- tions, " being reasonable greate to shewe, but so badd indede as no man will take anye at his price : they will rather fast, yt is so ill," and not according to his contract.

I hear there is a ship at Holy Island, with provision for the palace, but the weather prevents her coming hither, so I know not what is in her.

It seems to me that being here in the Queen's service, I have lost my father and the rest of my friends, whether through malicious judges being unanswered, or by my own just deserts, I know not, God be my judge : and you my lord must stand my father and brother, and procure that her Majesty may stand my gracious and merciful good Queen, praying God when I shaU deserve the contrary, " I may synke into hell presentlie." I hear you have been a " staye " for the passing of the captainship of Norham and the domains to my brother Sir Robert for a space, and thinking you have done it at my intercession, I let you understand how Jiecessary it is for the Governor here, who " cannott mysse ytt." He has neither oats nor straw for his horses but from thence : for his house, he has his coals his geese and hens and all manner of " wyldefoole " out of Xorhamshire. Besides whoever hereafter shall be governor of this town and warden of the East !March, Norham and Iskndsiiires being a liberty within itself, belonging to the house of Durham, will ever breed controversies and contentions — being in two men's hands. Also the captainship of Xorham having neither castle nor house to lie in, it is requisite ever to be ia the governor's hands, or her Majesty must be forced to lay out a great deal of money on the re-edifvinc; of the castle, " thut now ys Hatt downe to the grounde," or the captain must lie elsewhere, which will be very " discommodious " for the countrymen who have daily and hourly suits to be decided by tiie captain. Besides as " my

CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPEES. 19

1594-95.

Lord "holds moat of his salmon fishings as captain of Norham, few noble- men will hereafter seek the government of Berwick without Norham.

I would humbly move her Slajesty through your lordship for leave to come np, were it bat for one month. My first reason is, after serving her for at least 24 years, I have never before been " so longe weyned from the seight of her most sacredd presence." Second, I have lost my father's love and favour, who will scarce vouchsafe me to be his son, as his late treatment shows, and other letters confirm, and I would gladly clear myself before my enemies. Farther, T have great sums of money to pay, which will undo me unless I can come up to borrow and make shift. Also I would gladly take some care of my poor children, or they may do very ill, and the little living I have may be " imbezeled " or taken from me. And lastly, I w^onld as gladly see your honour's self as all my other friends in the world. I would not ask this leave, but I see things were never so quiet, and Sir John Selby being here might be deputy governor for the time, and I assure you if any cause happen, while on my way, I would come back here at once even if I had reached Ware. But if I came only for a month or sLi weeks, I should show you and her Slajesty some things worth hearing. Berwick. Sigved : Jhon Carey.

I hope your lordship will so deal in this, that it shall procure me no farther displeasure at my lord's hands than I have already.

2i pp. Postscript holograph. Addressed. Indorsed. Inclosed in the same : —

Berwick, 29 February 1594. View of the store in the Old Palace in charge of 'Si' Vernon, taken that day.

Bread com. — "Wheat, white r\-e and meal, 330 qrs. in all, which will serve 16 weeks "od" days, baking 20 qrs. weekl}', as now. Drink corn, -mz., malt, 72 qrs. which will serve 8 weeks, brewing IS qrs. every 14 days, as now. Horse provender — beans, " peasen," oats, none.

"Acates, t-L-."— butter, 50 firkins; lings, 100; cod fish, 5500; red herrings, 1 .'iOO ; white herrings, none ; cheese, none.

\ p. Indorsed bij Burghley : "29 Feb. 1554. A view of the store at Barwick ..."

March 7. 35. A Liddesd.\le in-denture.

" Indented at the Dayehohne in Cressoppe the vij'* daye of JIarche

1594, betwixt Walter Scott of Gowdelandes, cosinand deputie to

the right honorable Sir 'Walter Scott of Bran.xholme knight, keaper

of Lyddisdaill, and Thomas Carlton esqiiier constable of Carliell

castle, servant to the right honorable my Lorde Scroppe, lorde

warden of the West Marches of England.''

English. — For Umfray and Herrie Dobson's bill against Eckye Armstrange

of Tweden, ic. delivered Will Armstrange of Tweden upon his trial, to

stay within Carlisle till Lord Sorope or S]^ Carlton license him to depart,

Scottish. — The Laird of M.iiugerton's bdl referred to the Laird of Buck- chigh. " Request at my Lorda Scropes hande."

For John Ellott of Copshaw's bill, sworn, 5 kye, 2 oxen, de'livered Ambrose Carlton. English. — John Koutledge elder and younger, their bill, "done before the Lardes acceptacion." English. — For the three bills of Eewcastle, the Lainls of Maimjerton and W'hithaugh " denyes the recept,' and Synie of CalfhiU and Dick of Ilryupp, alleged not to be within Lidde.sdale. Jimes Rontlege's bill, the same answer.— For Robert Tweddell and Leonard Corbett's bill against Hob Ellott, ic, sworn, 7 oxen, 1 cow, a spear, a dagger, delivered Wille Ellott, called " Cowfaughe.s.' Scottish. — For William Ellott of Larestone's bill, ollered Jock Granie " son to Rob,'' as foul — refused because Oowdeland savs he is not worth the sura

20 CALENDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

1594-95.

— therefore referred to the Laird of Buccleuoh and my Lord Scrope. For William Scott of Thirleston and William Ellott of Faweneshe— not to be answered at this March. For the bill of Hobbie of the Belsies, turned " man " to Richies "Will, upon the Laird of iSuccleuch's letter, to be entered on trial. Walter Scott of Godelandes. James Scott in Quhyhope " clerk in this dataile."

1 p. Ccrpu by Scrop^i cleric. ImJorsed.

March 14. 36. Vernon to Bueghley.

I humbly beg through your lordship, who knows my state, that her Majesty will ^nt me relief, considering my great losses, and it shaU be a warning to me for life. I have sent to Hull to see the provision shipped this month, and what else is wanting. If I had laid in cheese and white herring, they would not have taken a " waie " of the one, or 3 barrels of the other without " compuUtion." The cod is Island and Wardhouse, and as good as any in Lynn or Hull. Before I came, the surveyor and comptroller and " If Porter " and others had of it, and commend it, as well as " Jf Governor " himself, so they need not find fault with it. I laid it in because it is good, and will last ; yet as the town is served commonly with fresh cod and other sea fish, they will take little from the store, as will appear when Lent is past. Siijned : Eobert Vernon. h p. Addresxd. Indorsed hj Burghle'j.

March 15. 37. The Mayor, &c., of Berwick to Burghley.

We hear the customer of this town " is come upp to London, whose restles head and malicious mynde will not leave to troble," till he has hindered the Queen's profit and greatly prejudiced this poor town. He works by if Blande and one iP Smythe " who- is towardes the Lorde Buckhurste "—for we see by copies of some letters he wrote to them before his journey, that his friend Smyth told him, that if your lordship with iP Chancellor and the surveyor, ".did order" for the town on these proceedings, he would find means to have the cause brought before her llajesty. We can but wonder that this man receiving his office from your lordship, can dare do anything touching it except through yon ! A year ago he asked leave to make an illegal demand of the merchants never made before, which your lordship refused him. Yet this month he " boldelye receaved frome the marchauntes an extortt fee," and refused his warrant till paid. Now they wish to sue him on a statute, " which^ lawe wiU overtake him, and the same lawe (after we shall have indicted him upon extorcion) will put him frome his office, if it so maye stande with your lordshippes »ood pleasure. For his life in this place, he is a noted man for eviU in sundrye grosse partes," which we forbear to correct or meddle with, till this controversy is ended.

These dealings of his have caused the Scots merchants to seek safe passage by means of Cesford and Buccleuch through Teviotdale, Liddesdale, ami those parts, which will be costly to prevent. The last time we were excluded from the " fenne " by your letter, the customer devised with a factor here for the Scots merchants, to make a new form of entry for their packs for the factor's gain. " Surely he was verye tymelye therein ! " We humbly pray that our rights and privileges under charter, statute, and orders from the Lords of the Council, may be upholden to us, whereby we have advanced her Majesty's custom here : otherwise there will be little benefit to her highness. Berwick. " The Maior and Aldermen." Siijned : Thomas Parkinson, maiour, WiU'm Morton, Robert Jaxsou,* Edwarde Mery, Thomas ilore, Peter Fairley.

1 p. Addre.<sed. Indonu'd.

' Siij'ns by iuitials.

CALENDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES. 21

1594-95. .March 20. 38. JoffN" Cakey to Burghley.

I find by your letter of the 14'" that it is better to have an honourable friend than many kin, but leave the requital to God, having no means myself.

Tour honour's postscript requires to know the profit my lord has by Norham. Though it is not a son's part to diijover the secrets of his father's living, I will satisfy you, as in truth I can in tliis point, " which is no more then as his own greave, or otherwise as your lordshipe calles them in your country, his baylyc," has heretofore told me, that he commonly makes to my lord's own purse yearly very near 400/., aO rents and duties being discharged— some years more, some less, as corn rises or falls. This is only for the tithes of Xorham and Islandshire, which he holds by lease from Durham ; he renewed it lately from the Dean and Chapter at the change of the bishops, and has since "bestowed yt of Sir Robert Carey. Howlhev have agreed for it I know not, but I would have thought Sir Robert might have been content with 400/. a year " at one clape," without seeking what I possess.

My lord has never made any great commodity of the captainship and demeanes himself : for the most of his time, he let Sir John Selby a stranger, have it, tiU my brother William came, who got it for his maintenance till his death, when my father bestowed it on me, tiU Sir Robert Carey has gone about to get it from me. But I must teU you, when my lord was here him- self he took the commodities, as oats and straw, wild fowl, &c, and coals for his house, besides " the lyaltye '' and commandment, without which the governor has nothing to do over the bridge, but by leave of the captain. It seems by Sir Robert's earnest seeking of this, he desires to be near Scotland.

Your lordship refers to mv note sent of the small store, and mislikes it. I must more earnestly entreat your lordship to take order therein, for nothino- more is come, the stock decreases, and Vernon's men deal so iO, they make it bad. He greatly abuses your honour and us, in not confessing his insufficiency. Tour honour doubts getting leave for me to come up. I earnestly beseecli you to further it, were it but for 12 days, for the reasons I gave in my last. If they may anything persuade her ilajesty, I pray your furtherance.

You mention at the end of your letter that iP John " Caulvyn " is in great favour with the King, and like to encounter with the Chancellor. It is true • he is in good favour and lies in the Abbey. But the Chancellor is too great a man for him to encounter wath — for '^ he dares not goe out of the Abbye to his owne house att Leeth, wheare his wiffe lyeth about his nedfuU atfayres, p^ist once in xiiij dayes, and that very secretly, his enimyes are so great." I send herewith a letter which I received this day from " Calvyn " himself, but doubt the latter part touching my lord Eodwell, for not long since a merchant told me he saw him received into Duacarke by the governor there and but five in his company. " Praying your lordship to perdon all faultes, for that I ame forceti to trust my sarrant with the writing of this, being myself forced to keepe my bed, as I have donn this foure or v dayes by extremity of a great ache or payne, which the surgeous here have not yet determined whether yt be a seatica or the stone — but so grevious it is that I can nether sett, goe, nor stand, but continually lying . . . ■ " Ber^vick.

* " I hear a secret wiche I dare scares commit it to paper but onley to youer honer whoe I knoe c;me yeues it wnysley. This requeste of the Queenes to the Kinge for the kepinge her younge prinse was wondenaU ill taken bey the Kynge, and is judged to be the Chanselers devise bey Buckcleughes meanes, whoe is thoughte to be in to great faver withe the Queen. I dare

* The rest is holograph.

CALENDAR OF BORDEE PAPEES.

say no moer, but tber is muche spoken of tliis in Scotland." Signed: Jhou Carey.

2i pp. Addressed. Indorsed : " M' Robert Carey to my Lord." Corrected by Burghley to " Jhon."

39. The Cdstomek of Berwick to '.'he Peiyy Council.

To prevent merchants evading custom at Berwick, he begs authority to place a deputy at Newcastle to take bond of all carrying goods over the Tyne, that they shill be discharged in Bermck.

Second- — Authority to proclaim in Morpytt, Hecsam, and AInewicke, and all parish churches in Northumberland, that " no Scotch lynnen " pass into England unless sealed by the customer or his deputy at Berwick, on pain of forfeiture, one " moytie " to the Queen, the other to him who seizes it. Also that uo goods pass into or out of Scotland, one mOe from the highway to Berwick, under the like penalty. All such seizures to be brought forth\vith to the Berwick custom house, that the customer may account to the Queen, as was done by Robert Ardinge late customer, by the Lord Treasurer's order. That "their honnnurs" would command the lieutenant governor of Berwick to assist the officers of customs when required for the Queen's service, and not to suffer the Mayor and " comynaltie " to molest the merchants passing through the town, or make any new tax or exaction on them under colour of privilege. Farther the said governor to charge the warders to prevent com or merchandise passing the gates into Scotland, without the customer's warrant, on penalty of forfeiture as above.

Their honours to write in like manner to Sir John Forster lord warden of the ■ " West " Marches, and Sir John Selby deputy warden of the East Afarches, to assist the custom house officers at Berwick in the Queen's service.

Fa^th^^r their honours should know that the farmer has paid no duties to the Queen "for theis two yeares come our Lady day next." Not signed.

2 pp. Iiulorsed : "20 Martij 1594. For the increase of the customes at Barwick."

March 22. 40. Passpokt to Ja.mes Clakke, &c.

Licensing the bearers, James Clarke "gentleman of Scotland," and John Anderson and James Kerswell " Scotsmen," repairing to London and foreign parts under their King's license, with one brown ambling nag 1-4 "handfull" high, one black ambling "stonde" nag 16 "handfuH" high, and one gray ambling nag 13 "handfull" high, with their bag, and baggages, to pass peaceably without let or stay. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

id: "To all justices of peace, maiors, sheriifes, bayliSes,

\p. constables, hedboroughes," &.c. wafer signet : indistinct.

Indorsed btj Burghley : " Pasport." Oval

March 22. 41. Passport to George Towers, &c.

Similar for George Towers, William Addamson, and Walter Scote " gentlemen of Scotland," repairing to London and foreign parts, ic, with a brown ambling nag 15 hands high, a gray ambling nag 15 hands hish, a sorrell ambling nag of 13 hands, and a dunne ambling nag of 13 hands, a spare ledhorse, &c. Berwick. Signed : .Jhon Carey.

1 p. Addres-ied. Indorsed. Wafer signet as before : indistinct.

March 23, 42. SCROPE TO BUEGHLEY.

Agreeable to Sir Robert Cecil's letter miimating her Majesty's pleasure.

CALENDAE OF BORDER PAPERS.

I met Lord Herries at Tordawathe last Thursday, and we conferred of justice for past and fatnre offences. I offered to begin either from his or my own entrance on our offices, but as he required the King's authority before agreeing, we separated without doing more than freeing all unlawful prisoners on both sides and their bonds.

As for the "partie" who wrote the letters brought to M' Cnrwen, I have been unable to acjumplish your desire to apprehend \ !m ; bat I hear on good credit, "that his name is (as he geveth oute) Cecil!." He told his familiars he was with your lonlship within this twelvemonth. It is bruited he i.s now gone to Spain, but if he returns hither, I trust to find means to bring him to your disposition.

I commend these Scots advertisements to your view. Signed : Th. Scroope.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

1.595. .March 2.5. 43. Account bet^\"es>' Vernon and Bowes.

Reckoning with M' Vernon for victuals charged in his book delivered to M' Treasurer for the first half year ended at the Annunciation 1.59-5. Sum total of these victuals .... 1,343^. lOi. 6i<i. Whereof disallowed as charged on my

lord governor . . . 300/.

And for works stopped, as the treasure is insufficient to pay more than the • garrison .... 13-5/. ■is. f>\d. " Quades, and not defalked " . . \s. Id.

So remains to be paid M' Vernon out of

this half year's receipt .... 90.?/. 4:.-. lOjrf. Against which — ^

Balance due M' Treasurer on

former accounts . 35/. Sf. ~d.

Warrants to M' Kant for Cornelius de ^vTeve . 304/. .5---.

For .AF Henry Sydney for 250/. . -554/. bs. Warrant to Jlr Scudamour for Sir Thomas Layton 61/. 7.>-. For men of Hull . 340/. 16.<. Sd.

402Z. 3.-.. 8'/. 991/. \1.<. .3i/.

So there is paid to >[■■ Vernon more than is due and defalked of the ordinary pay now, which

is to be paid by him to !Mr Treasurer .^3/. 1 2.-. i\d.

1 p. Written l»j Slufper&m, Boice.i'. man. Indorsed hij Burrjhleij : "Money payable to M' Vernon, Feb. 1595."

-Miu-ch 25. 44 Provisions for Bsrwick.

In December 1594 — Provided in Norfolk cod, butter, wheat, malt. &c., by John Coilingwotwl, il' Henry Sydney and others, 925/. 16.>-. 8./. ; whereof paid 554/. 5s. and "oinge " 371/. lis. 8'/.

In .lanuary 1594 — Provided in Hull, white rye, wheat, malt, beans and tish, &c., 943/. e.-,'. 8./. ; whereof paid 407/. Go.'. .8r/. ; " oinge " 536/.

Vernon appends .i decJantion that after making these payments, ic, there is a balance due him of 13-5/. 4s. b\d.

i pp. Written hy his clerk Imlorstd.

24 CALENDAE OF BORDEE PAPEES.

1595. March 28. 45. Pay at Berwck.

Sum due to the garrison, &c., at Berwick for the first half year ended at the Annunciation 1595 — with 37Z. 16.:>. due the Queen's watch for the latter half year but to be paid before hand . . 6,664Z. 12.«. 9d.

Besides works and extra ordnance charges charged

to works in Vernon's book for victuals . . 1351. 4s. 5W.

Total, . 6,799;. lis. iM. For which in JF Clopton's hands for

the year ended llichaelmas 1594 665Z. 3.^. ll^d. To be received from the receivers of

York, Lincoln, JN'orthnmberland,

&c. . . - ■ 6000?. 6,665Z. 3s. Ufl.

Deficit to be supplied (besides work

and e.\tra ordnance charges) . . . 134Z. IS.-:. 2^rf.

1 p. Written by Sheperson. Indorsed hij Burghley : "l"he manner of paye at Barwyk."

March 28. 46. LoRD HuNTDiGDON TO [Bueghley].

According to her JMajesty's pleasure made known by your letter of the 17'" and received the 21" instant, I send by this bearer, "Davyd Lawe who was takyn with Nicolas Wyllinson by M' H. Lee." If he comes not ■with such speed as expected, yet immediately on getting your letter, I wrote to Carlisle for him, and have charged the bearer to make all the haste he

can thinking it best to send him in charge "the hole journey," having to

pass so many different counties, who might not be so careful. I have taken the best course for his convoy I can, as you will see if my order is observed in other counties, as it shall be till he passes Yorkshire. " Thus commyt- tynge you to the Lord Jesus." York. Signed: H. Huntyngdon.

1 p. Holograph. Flyleaf and a/idress lost.

April 2, 47. Passport for George Seton, &c.

Licensing " Capten George Seaton gentleman of Scotland, with his wiff, his -sviffes sonn, Absolon Pentlen, and John Hume, William Crawford, his servantes," to pass by London to foreign parts, with a black ambling "stond " horse, 16 hands high, a brown and a gray ambling nag, each of 14 hands, and a " dunde " ambling nag of 12 hands. Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

1 p. Addressed {as before). Wafer signet as before : indistinct.

April 6 48. Provision at Ber-wics.

Stock remaining there 6'*" April 1595, declaration how long it will

serve, and what is on the way thither, &c. The bread is estimated to last tiU 14"" September. The malt estimated to last tdl the 1 -i"" of December nest, " if they brew not faster after Mid- sommer."

[The details of the daily service of rations, ic, to the garrison, follow.] Rob. Yemen.

\ p. A copy hy Carey's clerk. Indorsed (as title).

April 8. 49. John Carey to Burghley.

I hear by most of my friends, that I am most infinitely bound to your

1595.

GAXENDAE OF BORDER PAPERS.

honour, and .by your means to her Majesty, in defending " my inosent injuryes," and can say no more but " God rewarde you."

Touching this poor town, as I see no likelihood of amendment, I must deal more plainly than hitherto, fearing the fault will be laid on my own shoulders, and mast assure your lordship and the rest of the Council, that unless present order be taken " out of hand," the towTi will be undone, for there is no provision to speak of. There is no help from the "pallace," as the custom was in dear years, "a man weare mu ch better dwell at London: " and the poorer sort and many housekeepers are giving np housekeeping and go begging, yea even the better sort find their " porsyone of want " also. And for the Queen doing anything for Yernon, it is "but to shoote one arrowe after another," he is so deep in debt in Norfolk and elsewhere. I send herewith a certificate of the provision in the " pallace," showing what has been brought since my last, and yet on bis own saying the two ships last come are all we are to look for tOl Jlichaelmas.

Also the purveyor of beef and mutton now here, tells me plainly that unless Vernon satisfy him, as he promised to do at Lady day last, and is now two years behind — he will provide no more. So we shall be in food case at Easter, when we shall get nothing except from the Scots ! I would not write thus against " the poor gentleman " without great cause.

1 also inclose the defaults of muster taken on the 3"^. There is no news in Scotland, " but such as is sent upp to j\l' Bowes by the leard of Weamses man, who as I heare is come with certen letters of consperycy from the King, that were taken in Flaunders and sent to the King by the Est.ites, and other thinges taken from a .Jesuite apprehended .at Leeth." The King and Queen are now at Stirling, where they mean to remain some long time. The King has made kindness between the Earl of Mar and the Chancellor, but how long it will hold God knows.

On the 3"^ M' John Calvyn had his remission and pardon proclaimed at Stirling, and goes openly to Court. If it pleased her Majesty, I think he might be a " good instrument " there.

Praying leave still to come up bnt for 12 days if her Majesty please in this quiet time. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

2 pp. Addressfd. Inlnsed. Stcan tcafer signet. Inclosed in the same : —

(1) Survey of the store in the " Old Pallaice " or victual office under

Robert Vernon's charge, taken by John Crane comptroller and

Captain Carvill appointed thereto by the deputy governor.

Bread corn, — wheat, rye and meal, 3S0 qrs. Drink com, — malt, 170 qrs. :

.50 whereof heated in the ship, but if aired and mixed with good malt, it

will be " serviceable." Horse provender, — " peason," mLied with a few

beans, heated in the ship, "all rotten and noughte," 42 qrs. " Gates, nuU."

" Acates," uk., 4 firkins butter ; 4000 cod " wett and drye ; " 100 liugs ;

herrings, " null ; " cheese, " nulL"

* It is a pitteyus thinge that the horsemen have not had a note t sines MycaheUmas, nor all this towen hathe not had nether aney whit heringes all this Lent, wiche wold a byn a good helpe to the poer." Signed : .John Crane, -Kobart Carvill. 1 p. Itidomed.

(2) Defaults of musters taken .3"* April. Absentees with or without passports, from the companies of John Carey, .sir William Read, Robert Carvill and five other captains, the gunners, artificers, horsemen and pensioners, 60. Signed: Jhon (,'arcy, -John Crane. A-.A' it 'not hij BiLi-ghley : " The garrison is about l"" hcades.''

3 pp. In Crane's ^critiruj. Indorsed.

In Carey's 1

26 CALENDAE OF BORDER PAPERS.

1595. April 8. 50. The Mayor of Hull to Carey.

Of the provision of grain iu these parts made by M, Veinon for Berwick, there remain to be shipped betwixt 300 and 400 qrs., the most of which had been laden ere this time, but the justices of Lincolnshire and the customer of this town, stayed the same till the Privy Council's pleasure be further known — which I think will bf ^shortly, as M' Vernon has written to the Lord Treasurer thereon. I thought good to certify you. Kingston- upon-HulL Si'jTied : Robert Taillor, maior.

rV p. Addressed : " To the worshipfull my very loving frend M' John Gary deputie govemoiir of Banvick be this delivered." Indorsed.

April 13. 51. Veknon to Burghley.

I declared your pleasure to M' Carey, who tells me he will in two or three days certify you of the provision here, and what is coming from Hull by the Mayor's certificate to him, and the good opinion all men have of my sufficiency for service here. Meantime I send a certificate signed by Sir John Selby, Sir William Reade, and M"' Comptroller, of their twenty years' knowledge of me here, and trust, though this year has been very chargeable to me from the dearth, yet by God's help, to end it with gooiiliking of all, and that He will send a more plentiful year the next. But mean time there is no want of anything here, as will appear by their certificate. I stUl beseech your honour for relief at her JLijesty's hand for my great losses in service here, as shall seem best to yon. I intend by the grace of God to be with your honour shortly after Easter. Berwick. Si'jned : Robert Vernon.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

Inclosed in the same : —

(Selb/s, &c., certificate.)

Vernon having declared to them the Lord Treasurer's pleasure that they should give their opinions of his sufficiency and store for the garrison, they certify that for twenty years he has amply served them in all respects till this dear year, when the horsemen were short of pease and oats, getting double allowance of bread instead — and no other want to speak of. They doubt not he will make full provision " and better cheape " than this year, wherein he is like to be a great loser. They attest his long e.xperience and upright dealings with the garrison, never doing wrong the value of a penny in weight or measure, but good and pleasure to many, even to his own hindrance. Siijned : Jlion Selbye, Wyllyam Reed, John Crane.

1 p. ImJorsed bij BtirghUy : "l;3th Aprill 1595. Sir John Selby, Sir ■WyDiam Reed, Jhon Crane."

April 14. 52. Passport for George Kyer, Ac.

Licensing the bearers " George Kyer, gentleman of France, and Heniy Leviston and William Kyer, gentlemen of Scotland, with their atten- dantes William Dwre, John Hume, Nicholas Destampes and Robart Blenched Scotsmen," recommended by their King, to pass by London to foreign parts, with one ambling white " stond " horse 13 hands high, an ambling gray gelding of 17 hands, an ambling gray "stond" horse of 18 hands, another ambling gray " stond" horse of 18 hands, a "trotting " bay "stond" horse of IS hands, an ambling gray "stond" horse of 16 hands, an ambling gray "stond" horse of IS hands, and an ambling gray "stond" horse of 17 hands." Berwick. Siijned : Jbon Carey.

1 p. Addressed (as before). Indorsed hij Burghley : " Comended by Roger Aston to be brought." Wa/er .iignet as before : Careys shield of 9 miarfers. Crest : a uniconi (or griffin's) heoii. Clear

CALENDAR OF BOEDEE PAPEES. 27

1595. April 15. 53. Eobekt Ardern to Burghley.

A note of the Queen's garrison in Berwick and the allowance of

victuals, &c, for the same. The garrison with the retinue of the Lord Governor and the officei-s, contains under the establishment, 1000 men or thereabouts, victualled as follows ; —

One man daily, bd. and id. over each mouth ; ^'if month ot 28 days, \'2.^. ; per half-year of 6 months, 14 days, 78.5-.; pei- year of 13 months, 1 day, 71. IS.s. od. For 1000 men the month 600/; the half-year 3900/. ; the year 7820/. 16s. Sd. For which 5<i M' Vernon must allow by his covenant to each man — bread called "cheat bread, baked and cold from the oven," 24 oz. for Id. ; "soldier's beare" 30^-. the tun, 1 "pottle" Id.

On flesh days, 4 in the week, 208 in the year — beef or mutton, from Easter to 25 June, at \^d. a pound — from ^Midsummer to 1 January at 1-J'i.; and from 1 January to " Shrovetide" at IJrf.

On fish daysj 3 in the week, 156 in the year— butter at 3d. the lb. ; cheese at Ihd. Fish,— lings, ]4</. a piece; cod, \0d. ; red herrings, 12s. "the cade ; " white herrings, 26s. St/, the barrel.

" Wine vinegar — " the hogshead of 60 gallons at 6'/. ; a quart for Ihd. " Roughe tallowe," 2d. per lb.

No man's allowance to exceed lis. a month.

Horsemeat to be made yearly, — beans -500 qrs. at 12s. the qr., 300/. ; oats 500 qrs. at 4s. 8(/. the qr., 116/. 13-s. id-. Total allowances of victuals, &c., 8237/. 10s. Signed : Robert Ardera.

2 pp. Holograph. Addreg.vd. Indorsed b>j Burghley : 15 April 1595, Arderns book."

April 15. 54. Egbert Akdern to Burghley.

" Under correction," considering that there should be a " remaine " in store every year after victualling the garrison, it •will be needful to have an imprest of 2000/. over and above the estimate— making in aU, 10,237/. 10s. And as provisions are so dear in England, I think " (by your lordship.s favour)" wheat and rye may be speedily provided "at Anseriedam or Aukewson in North Holland " for Berwick, much cheaper than here. And

if the dearth conrinue, a part may

had from " Danske.

If the wheat is bought not over Tis. id. the qr., the 2c/. loaf may contain 48 02L, as it should do.^and " beare out " the charges, as freight, fuel, milnage, wages', &c. If over that price, a loss will arise on every quarter.

If malt is bought under 15s. the qr., the beer may be sold at 30.<. the tun.

The like with°the beef, mutton, Ac, if bought higher than as set down. " Therefore to be holpeu by the carefull and true service of one that hath skill to devide the time." 'Signed : Robert Ardem.

\ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed bj/ Barghieg :" \o April 1595. Ardens declaration for victellyng at Barwyk."

55. Note as to bcttsg for Berwick.

That some man of credii and skill be sent to the Eastern counties, with money and instructions to provide wheat, malt, Ac, under direction of the justices of peace, to s^e the Queen's money properiy bestowed.

Thomas Clarke at Berwick to be ordered to make lofts and othce houses to receive it, and issue as before to the soldiers, as he has used.

A man of credit to be sent to the Bishopric and Yorksmre to buy beet and mutton, under the direction of three justices of peace. One -Uen Barker who acted for 11^ Vernon, is a fit man for one. Tne provision to be delivered to Clarke as above.

28 CALENDAJl OF BORDEE PAPEES.

1595.

To move the Queen for the balance of two yenrs' pay, that Captain Selby is here smng for.

1 p. Irtdorsed by Bunjhleij : "1.5 April 1.595. From M' Selby." Marginal notes also hy him.

April 19. 56. John Carey to Burghley.

Scotland is very quiet now — but of late there was a tumult in Edinburgh on a report that Bothwell had landed at the EarFs ferry, which caused great fear for the time. " The King and Queene are now presently at some little difference, for the King wilby no meaces be drawne to come to Edenbroughe, whereto his CounseU have by all meanes they cane per- swaded him, and the Queene shee will not in any case be keept from thence, who doth greatly desyer to have the custody and keeping of the young prince into her owne custody and keeping, which the King will not in any sorte yeald unto, notwithstanding that the Queene is very earnestly bent to have it so."

1 received by the customer's hand a letter of •J.3'''* March signed by your lordship and Sir John " Fa'skew " to revoke the custom from the farmers and deliver it to the Queen's officers, which I have done, with the willing assent of the Mayor and aldermen for their interest. As to the reckoning with them for the past year, and their delivery of the money draivn for custom since Christmas, to the customer, as you ordered : they say when in London last, they reckoned with the Queen's four surveyors general of custom, and since then they have many more to make which cannot be done here. And any money due since Christmas is still in the merchants' hands. So they beo- your honour to wait till the beginning of the ne.\t term, when the Mayor and some of his brethren mean to come up and account.

I send a bill of most needful works, which cannot well be long delayed, or the charge will be far greater. I still beg leave to come up, and will not fail an hour of my time to return, be it ever so little. j\l'' Vernon is newly come here, who begs me to write in his behalf, but I dare not say much, seeinc little hope of the amendment he promises, but that it grows worse and worse. I inclose a letter from the Mayor of HuU to me. Berwick. Sirjned : Jhon Carey.

2}tpp. Addressed. Indmsed. Inclosed m the same : —

Berwick, 19 April 1595. Report on the necessary works formerly certified to the Lord High Treasurer, and now merely revived to his memory.

Extracts.

First. — The long bridge over Tweed in great decay— (whereof part was repaired in the years 1593 and 1594) — for which coals and timber remain yet in store.

The Cowgate and bridge in such decay that none dare ride over the latter nor the night w.atch, ic, pass — as formerly reported.

Smiths' forges — as formerly reported.

The glass windows of the Governor's house blown down and broken so that none can lodge in it.

Defects in the old town wall next the river — and the battlements so low that some of the watchmen have been killed or maimed, falling over them.

The surveyors point out how these being promptly done, would save the Queen double and treble. Signed : John Crane. Will" Acrigge.

'2ij>p- Written, hy Crane. Indorsed.

CALENDAR OF EORDEE PAPERS. 29

1595. April 19. 57. Esti.mate for Ber\vick gaekison.

To victual 9S1 men for 7 months at 2S Javs in the month from 19 April till 31 October.

Extracts

Wheat, 858 qrs. 3 bashs. at 23^-. \d. the qr., by the

old covenants, 4- cwt. to the qr. . . 1,00H. S:,- 9i?

Now \Qs. the qr. . . . . . jjig/ jg^.;

Excess of price 715?. 6^-. 3,?.

Difference between malt at lo.j. and 28*. a qr. now. 390?.

„ oats at 4a 8t/. and 10.<. „ g/. 1.3c.- \d

„ beef or mutton at \\d. a Ih. and 2k?. 239?. 2,s ■I-'--?

„ bntter at 3'?., now 6(?. „ . 294? 6s

,, beans at 12;;., now 18.1. a qr. 150?.

Total provisions at the rates of the old covenants . 4,144?. 10.<. 3,?

Total at the new rates .... 6,735?. Ho.- \\,i

'2pp. Broad sheets. Annotated hij Bur^jldnj. Imlorsed htj him ■ " \

certificat of provision for Barwyk made by iP Rob' Bowes and f "]

Arden for 981 men for 7 months. " -'

April 25. 58. John Carey to Bckghlet.

The sending of my last letter about the decayed works here was not without great cause — for since, a great part of the town wall is fallen and more likely to fall daily. It is so " slender," that a man may shake it' with his hands or a staff. The next spring tide will bring it all do\vn. That your lordship may understand whereabout it is, " I will so neare as I cane appointe you in the mape where you shall finde it." AYhen I first came here I sent you by Captain Bo-\vyer 2 maps, " a little one and a "^reat " If you have not lost them, " there is in the little mape written, ' the pallace' — this breache that is fallen, is even against the last letter ' s ' of the .same worde ' pallace ' ; that is the full sea, also that is written over a"ainst yt In your great mape of the toivne as it now is. yt is in the myde way between D and E, somewhat nearer D than E."

Praying your honour it may be timely looked to, also the " Kowe gate bridge is cleane rotten."

Scotland is very quiet, save of late a rumour that Bothwell was come to these parts caused some little stii-.

Inclosed is a note of a certain progress intecJed by the King and Queen of Scots — intreating you if it so fall out, to signify your counsel and the Queen's pleasure, how I shall behave myself. Whether the Queen will have any honour bestowed on them, or if I shall withstand their cominf so near the town ? Berwick Sijned : Jhon Carey.

11^^. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafrr .'i'jriet.

Inclosed in the same : —

" JP 'VVilliam Hume of Bassendea briiher unto .Sir .James Hume of Cowdenknowes, sent me worde that the King and Queene majesties hiith purposed about xx''" dayes or a moneth hence, to have a prograce into Lowdicin and the ilaise, from Edenbroiigiie to Ceton, and from thence to Northbanvik, and so to Bell, a house of the Larue of Blisses, and from thence to Brocksmouth. and so to Ponglace to the Lord Humes, and from thence to Weitherborne. and eyther in the way thether, or from thence, to come into the boundes of Barwik so neare unto the towne as that they may have a sight and ve'A'e thereof — the vshich the Queene greatly desyreth. and so

CALENDAR OF BORDEE PAPERS.

from "Weitherborne to Macarstone, from thence to Lawder Chaunceller his house, and there to remayne viij or ten dayes."

Written hy Carey's clerk.

(1) Another copy in same hand.

April 27. 59. Passport for Captain W. Hamilton, &c.

Licensing the bearers "Capten William Hammiltoun, and Capten BosweE, gentlemen of Scotland, with their servantes Thomas Freiswell, James Hammiltoun and Lenarde Jarre ; and John, and James Boswell centlemen of Scotland," bound by London for foreign parts, commended by the Kino-'s letter to Carey — with a white ambling and trotting " atone " horse 17 hands hi'-fh, an ambling gray nag of 13 hands, an ambling black gelding of 15 hands, a bay ambling and trotting " stonde " horse of 16 hands, a bav amblino- " atond " horse of 14 hands, a white ambling gray gelding of 1.5" hands, a trotting iron gray "stond " horse of 15 hands, a black ambling and trotting gelding of 15 hands, an ambling and trotting dapple gray treldin<' of 16 hands — to pass without let, (fee. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

1 p. Addressed (as before). Oval quartered wafer signet: indistinct.

Mav 7. 60. Passport for James Gibson, &c.

Licensing the bearers, " James Gibson Scotsman and preacher in Scotland, Kobarte Ritchardson, George Heryott, and George Lockard, trentlemen of the same countrye, with their servantes John Armerer and Robarte Macklemorrowe," bound by London for foreign parts,— with an amblintJ " "ray white stonde " horse of 16 hands high, an ambling brown bay "stonde" horse of 16 hands, an ambling black stond horse of 18 hands, an ambling " white gray " nag of 14 hands, a trotting bay " stonde " horse of 18 hands, an ambling iron gray "stond " horse of 15, and an ambling white gray "stond" horse of 14 hands — to pass, &.C. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey 1 p. Addressed {as before). Indorsed : " Pasport for W Lockard and his servantes and horses alone, and not any of the rest, for that they do retume into Scotland. M' "Wardlowe may be joyned with him." Carey's quartered wafer signet.

^ilav 7. 61. Passport for D. Wardlaw.

Licensing " M' David Wardlowe Scotsman," to travel by London to foreign parts, with an "amble " dark gray gelding of 16 hands high, without let or stay, kc. Berwick. Snjned : Jhon Carey.

1 p. Addressed [as before). Carey's quartered wafer signet.

.M.iv 10. 62. John Carey to Burghley. y

On Thursday the S"" instant, the Queen of Scots came to Edinburgh. The King was looked for next morrow Friday " being come from Lythequo " the Monday before, but came not, and the Convention was put oif till he came. The " Sessyons " should hold on the 16-''. The King and Queen's progress to our bounds, was moved, but much " misliked " by the King, and " cleane rejected." It would seem only the Queen's wish, as she desired to see East and West Teviotdale, and the governments uuder Cesford and Bucclfcuch's charge, and the borders and bounds. But the King was very angry.

It is thought that the Earls of Huntly and " Arell " are arrived at " Ham- broufhe." Scotland is quiet, but it is feared " this marriage of the young Lord of Glaymes will kindle a new hatred belweue the Chaunceller and the

CALEJJ^DAE OF BORDEE PAPEES.

1595.

Earle of Jlarre, for that the Master of Glaymes had promised his nephew the lord in marrydge to Sesfordes sister, and now by the Earle ifarres crossing of it, he is to marrye with fayre ilistris Ann Murrey the Kinoes mistris — which will easely breed a dislike where there was no love before."

The wall of which I wrote, is every day " falling still more and more," and if not speedily mended, must be guarded with men day and ni'^ht. I also intreat your honour's warrant to M' Clopton for the half year's pay, or we shall be umione, by this dear and scarce year.

Since I last wrote of " the yll beanes " in the palace, there is nothins more come, though the Mayor of Hull, whose letter I inclosed, wrote there was 300 or 400 qrs. of grain ready — but "never a whyte come hether." The dearth here is wonderfull, " and the dearth of cattell for lack of stowver* is very great."

I must earnestly renew my old suit for leave to come up for ever so little time, to arrange for the little living I have, " which nowe standes in verv daungerous tearmes," and your honour sees how needful it is for me to be careful of my estate, so as my children may not after go begging. Berwick. Sifjned : Jhon Carey.

Ih pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet.

.May 10. 63. John Crane to Bdkghiey.

Reminding him of his former report on the decay of the brewin" vessels at Holy Island, which are now in such " rewyn " that they are quite useless if need arose. Has reported as in duly bound, leaving the order for repair to be given to M' Vernon who is in charge of them. Berwick. Siijned : John Crane.

1 p. Holoijraph. Addressed. Indmsed. Wafer signet : a crane.

M.iy 10. 64. Carey to Sir Egbert Cecil.

Your " favorable " letter of the last of April should have been per- formed in all points, if the King and Queen had "held on their pretended prograce." [The reasons icliij thetj did not given as in his letter to Burghley of same </afc. ] i

Scotland is quiet, and no news worth writing. Thus much I desire your honour to assure yourself of, my poor love and faithful service ever to be com- manded by you and your house, being tied and bound by my lord your father's favours towards me, which I ^-ill never forget. Berwick! Si'jner' : Jhon Carey.

1 p. Addressed. Irulorsed.

M.xy 20. 65. JoHX Carey to Burghley.

On behalf of the ]Mayor and corporation, who have acconiing to promise, sent up some of their brethren to account with the Queen's surveyor for her dues and arrearages of custom. Signifying at their request, that their estate is very h;ird and poor, needing relief " l)y reason of the gre-jt decay of their waters," wliich they pay great rents for aud cannot meet them, the custom beinc; taken from them, .which will be less i.rotitable to th • Queen than is looked for. Berwick. Higned : Jhon Carey." 1 p. Addressed. Indmsed. Siran icafer siipiet.

May 20. 53. TiiE Mayor, ic, of Ber:vick to Burghley.

Showin^j liini that as he oriered. tliey had surrendered the custum

CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPEES.

lately granted by him — that they have lost by their fishings, having paid TOOL to M' Hethe for them — by the want of their pasture grounds — by their debt to the London fishmongers under long suits to the Queen not yet obtained, and other causes — and have sent some of their neighbours to petition him, while reckoning with the surveyor for the farm of the custom. Berwick. " The Maior and aldermp>" Siijned: Thomas Parkinson maior, "WiU'm Morton, Edwarde Mery, John Denton, George Mortoun, Tho. Hogg, Henry Eigg, John Orde.

1 p. Addrei^secl. Indorsed. Wafer seal : toxcn arms, indistinct.

May 29. 67. John Casky to Burghley.

I find by M' Clopton he has not yet got your warrant to pay the garrison at ilidsummer, for which I pray your lordship, or we shall be undone, such is the dearth.

It were good also the repairs were begun, as the summer is now " well entred, and will soone passe over." If it lie this coming winter tiU next summer, it will be more chargeable, and then must be done "of force," instead of now " uppon pleasure and mth leasure." For all M' Yemon's going to Norfolk and Hull, we have not since received "one come" — this for your consideration. The Scots are quiet, save some outrages in the Middle March, by Buccleuch foully murdering divers of her Majesty's subjects, whereof your honour will have heard by the lord warden. Berwick. Signed . Jhon Carey.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet.

Jlay 31. 68. Eeport on stores dj Berwick.

Berwick, last of May 1595.— Note of the store in the old " pallaice " or victual office in charge of M' Vernon, surveyed and seen the said day, " by the parties hereunder namede."

Meal, rye, wheat, &c., 188 qis. ; sufficient to last 9 weeks, baking 20 qrs. weekly as now. Wheat " unserviceable " for bread, 31 qrs. Malt 65 qrs. ; sufficient for 7 weeks, brewing 13 qrs. every fourteen days, as now. Neither " beanes, peazen " or " oates."

U sacks hops, 3300 li. weight.

Oxen — 1 1 ; whereof 4 " slaughtered " this day.

Muttons — 15 ; whereof 5 " slaughtered " this day.

"Other acates."— 40 "coople" lings — 1960 "coople codde fishe wett and drie." Neither butter, cheese, white or red herrings. Signed : John Crane, Robart Carvill, William Boyer, Antonye Thompson.

1 p. Written by Crane. Indorsed by ^rghley.

Miy 31. 69. Vek-XON's notes on the preceding Report.

The 188 qrs. wheat will "serve" for 11 weeks at 20 qrs. the week ending 17 August; 31 qrs. wheat" which they say is not good, "yet may be borne' withall this deare yeare." Shipped from Hull, and to ship, 80 qrs. " Serveth iiij weekes."

Malt " certifie<l " Go qrs. ; 43 nrs. to be received from Robert Jackson of Bervvick ; 180 qrs. shipped and .shipping from Hull, will serve 14 weeks brewing every 10 days — 60 qrs. beans shipping at Hull. Tney get neither

beans, pease.

till Michaelmas when their horses come from

Eeef and mutton they have as they call for it. Of fish there is no want. Thev " spend "' neither white uur rod herrings till Michaelmas. " Nowe is

CALENDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES. 33

1595.

the time" to provide salt butter, and cheese, which shall be done speedily. Not signed. Annotated by Burghley.

1 p. Indorsed: "M' Vernon his awnswer concerninge the reniaine

certified xtsj"" ilaij 1595."

■June 2. 70. The captains, &c., of Bekwick to Burghley.

We thank jonr lordship for your late care of us through the " inter- cours ■' of OUT deputy governor, who hath acquainted yon with all " causses " - more than was usn.1l in Sir Henry 'Woodryngton's time. Thus the two wants of money and munition being effected, " the third and trean^le stantyone, now joj-ntly to sustaine the state of this garyson or anye other, is the victuelling of it" M' Governor has certified truly of the small store here ,in discharge of his duty, as the victualler's " counter note " admits ; and on 30'" of last, infonned us that 'M' Vernon had shown your lordship under some of our hands, that the complaints against him were unfounded. If this be true, it came from none of us " ressedent" here, but from some continual absentees, who are careless of this place. But " wee both cap- taines and constables that lyve uppon our chardge . . . still continew our humble intreatye, not against the victuellor, who is an honnest geutelman, but against his wantes and victuelling, the which hereafter in parsell we sett downa" By ir Governor's comaiand, we with the comptroller, surveyed the store in the office and send the report by him.

The captains' answer to M' Vernon.

First. — He says he delivers bs. daily in bread for 50 men, thus 10(?. more than his contract for Vl. per man. We answer, though the petty victuallers confess this, yet at 7 days to the week, a penny daily for 50 men comes but to 29i 2(/., and his e.-ttra \Qd. is only weekly not daily. And instead of V2d. to each man for 7 days' bread, he only gives Sc/. for 7 days.

Second. — Instead of every man getting his " firken " of beer fortnightly, not a fourth of them gets it, though M' Vernon says the contrary.

Third. — Beef or mutton he says is had when called for. Beef we have " in som reasonable sorte," but not full. Mutton this long time, none at all for the private soldier — though in our companies there are old and sick men who need it. For the fish, we refer to the survey on .31" May. He says that none will be taken before Michaelmas — and truly : for unless better than most of it, none will be taken at any time. For butter, cheese and herring, it is true we will take none, for there is none tu take, and the soldier pays 6(i. for what M' Vernon is bound to serve at id. the Ih.

The constables' wants, complaints and replies.

Beans due to ■ the SO horsemen from Jlichaelmas to May day " on kenning " to every horse for 30 weeks, 600 " boles." If ic oats, a bushel per horse weekly in' 30 weeks is 1.00 "boles." il'T^'emou says he has delivered to' the horse garrison from Michaelmas 1594 till Easter day 1595, oats, 47 bolls, and beans and peas, 27-S bolls, equal to a " kening " of beans weekly. So for 15 weeks they have only received 301 bolls and for 15 weeks more we need 299 bolls.

For horsemeat, onr wants in the 15 weeks" from Michaelmas to May day are 90Z. at Vid. weekly each man.

His allowances to the horsemen of double bread as he says, are short by 23-.-. 4tf. weeklv. And the four constables get none of their due allowances. Beseeching your lordshio, both captains and constables jointly, for reform in these wants'. Benvick. Slyned : PLobart Carvill, Antonye Tompson, .John T\vTforde, 'William Bover, Jhon Fennicke, Josua Delavale, Leonard ilorton.

ojm. Annotated on marmnhij Bur jhleij. Addressed. Indorsed. VOL. n. C

CALENDAE OF BOEDEK PAPEES.

1595. June 2. 71. Needful kepatrs at BER^VICK.

ExtracU.

The long bridge of Tweed, estimated cost of repair, 60Z.

The Cowcite and bridge, estimated cost . . . 320/.

The breach in the old town wall next Tweed behind the Governor's lod<'in'' now fallen, to be done nth hewn stone from the foundation,

■win cost.

3/.

[Memorandum (as formerly) by the reporters, from what source icrht be taken.] Sigmd: John Crane, James Burrell for the "

Total, . 4.53/. . source the money mi^ht be taken.] HigriecL: JoHn Urane, James JJurrell tor the "surveior."

H pp. In Crane's icriting. Marginal notes by Carey: That Tweed brid''e though " verey nedfuU," may " beste be forborne," the other two being more " of nesessetey." Indorsed.

June 3. 72. John Carey to Bukghiey.

After receipt of yonr letter of 24"" May to know the most needful works here and cost, I sent her Majesty's officers to view and report, as your honour shall find inclosed.

You wrote of M' Vernon's coming to Court, with letters from some of the captains that the garrison is well provided, and a note by him of the store, requiring me to inquire how it agrees ? I called the captains and constables to see, who I think have certified your honour herein. For the captains who have written to the contrary, they are never here, and know nothing of our wants — specially Sir Wilham Reade who cares not what scarcity is here, for he serves his own company with his own com. If M'' Vernon's corn from Hull and M' Jackson's were here, it might serve till near Michaelmas, but I doubt it coming at all without your help. I have caused the controller and 3 of the captains to see the store and set down a trne note for your honour to judge of the other captains' account of it.

I have not complained of M' Vernon " for any mallice to the man," for I love and wish him well, nor have we had any great want yet, though very ill served : but in discharge of my duty I must certify how things go here.

Your honour compares the old prices with the new rates for this dear year, and how the Queen wUl be a great loser— but the fault is not in ns that want, but in M' Vernon, that should have made provision in time. I see by your letter, that some would gladly take it this dear year, amending the rates to suit the time ; wherein I cannot blame them if they can get it, but your honour is too wise to let the Queeu be "over reohed." For the old rate is a most honourable one with the great stock he had in hand, and many will take it, though providing now will go very hard : yet it must be done, always the best course.

Your postscript is true, that much c^ of all sorts comes here daily by ships — " but what good is that to us " when there is scarce one man here able to buy a boll ? There is no money, " save that one M' Jackson a towns- man " bought a ship load of some 500 qrs. rye. If M' Vernon had been able, he could have had plenty of corn.

You find want of Scottisli news " for lack of an embassetor," and require some from me. On the 10"' May I certified your honour at large about the King and Queen, &c. Other news there is none— for since Bodwell and the other two earls going out of the country, all is quiet. " The King and Queene is to Starling," and shortly the great marriage shall be solemnized at Lythquo between young Lord Glaymes and the King's mistress. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

CALE2n)AE OF BOEDEE PAPERS. 35

1595. Jiine 4. 73. E. Verxox to Bubghlet.

Petitions (1) to be relieTed by the Queen of his losses by the enemy, ic. (2) That the garrison either take weekly all their provisions supplied by him, proportionally, or else he shall not be bound to serve them. (3) That his artificers and labourers be paid in the bands and himself relieved. (4) To serve beef and mutton always at one price, l^tf. a Ih. ; butter at id.; cheese 2(7. ; pease and beans \\s. a qr. ; oats 6s. M. lie will always have in store 1000 qrs. wheat, 1200 qrs. malt, 300 qrs. peas and beans, and 200 qrs. oats. Asks his original contract to be thus amended owing to the rise in prices in the last 30 years. Not siyned.

1 p. Written bij his derk. Indorsed hj Burghley : "7 Jnnij 1595. Earwyk."

(1) Another coptj. Indorsed: " 4 Jnnij 1505."

June 6. 74. Bukgiilet's w.\rrants foe Berwick.

To M' Scudamour — to pay ip Ptaphe Ashton 3000?. for the garrison of Berwick for tlie hrst half year ended at the Annunciation last past, and 500?. under the Lord Treasurer's letter — taking the acquittance of M' Bowes treasurer, Berwick, for the whole sum.

Similar to M' Clopton — 2000?. for same half year, and any balance in his hands at the preceding Michaelmas, taking Bowes' receipt for the whole.

To [M"- Ralph Ashton]. — Sending him the above at Bowes' request who is presently in the Queen's service " here," that he may receive the money and pay the garrison as directed.

-pp. Drafts. Indorsed hj Biirjhlejj's secretary.

June 7. 75. Vernox's reply to ths captaks' coJiPLArar.

[He denies or explains away each separate allegation— or that there is any shortcoming in his supplies.]

" The certificate that came in his behalf, was under the handes of Sir Jhon Selbie, Sir William Reade, and M' Jhon Crane comptroller, whoe hee doubteth not but will at all times affirme what they have certified your lordship." Not si<jned.

2 pp. Written hy his cleric. Indorsed partly by Burghley : " ip Vernon his awnswer to the c.aptaines letter of complaint, 7 Junij 1595."

June S. 76. Scrope to Burghley.

I take boldness to intreat your lordship for my sake that you will be favourable to Thomas Lancaster, whom I hear you have commanded to ward, and inlarge him on mxid bond till the end of next term, that he may come down to order his affairs and satisfy yon. " I the rather desier this favour because I am informed that the Lowthers give '\ute they -ivill entre- poize their credites againste myne for his contynuance in warde and in your lordshipes disfavour, if I shoolde do my uttermost to the contrary."

My chief cause in writing is to report proceedings between me and Euccleuch, who as I have expected is more inclined to disturb than to keep the peace, though he pretends the biame is wich me.

His discontent as far as I can see, was that in the bill of Laristone, otier of delivery was made of John Grame son of Rob, a principal offender named in Euccleuch 's complaint, and required though refused (as appears in the last indent of our deputies), and because the " receipter ' to whom he had great quarrel, was not delivered Also because, for the special benefit of his own friends, more than the other dwellers in his charge, I would not upon " his peremptorie and verie haxvtie motion," agree to give redress to his friends

CALEiroAE OF BOEDEK PAPEKS.

wherever they dwell, for offences by my people— a thing never heard of before, and in my conceit inconvenient as touching the authority of other officers— and causing confusion in my charge. Because I refused this, he has since made great threats of disturbances — and this day I hear (though not for certain) of a great outrage in Gilsland by his people.

You have heard doubtless of the 4 Englishmen killed in Tynedale in Sir John Foreter's charge, Buccleuch himself being present, "for revenge of • an antient feede " — and the late slaughter of one Browne in Bewcastle. I would ask your advice whether to " poyne " aL'ain or refer the amends to those sent by her Majesty to negotiate with the King on other causes.

Some of the " Ranges of Steakhughe " commit great outrages here daily, and I can get no redress. They " shrowde " themselves under Buccleuch's protection, though dwelling in the West !March. I would ask your lordship what " overlooke " her Majesty would give, if amends were taken of these " Ranges " by her subjects ? Carlisle. Shjned : Th. Scroope.

21 pp. Adih-esseil Indorsed by Burghley.

June 13. 77. John Carey to Burghley.

Bothwell, Huntly and ErroU being " off the countrey," and the Court so far off, there is little news " stering." The King and Queen are still at Lythquo, by reasou on her coming there, she " fell very sick and it is reported by most folke, that shee is parted with a bearne," but others think she is sick for policy, to see if thereby she can get her young prince into her own cnstody, which the l\ing will not hear of. It stands hard which of them shall" have the victory. She is set on by the Chancellor, Buccleuch, Cesford, and others of the nobility and council and the town of Edinburgh. The King resists it by Mar and his faction. The Earl of Mar and the Chancellor are likely to break out in greater hatred than before, if the Kin" does not stop it " by his absolute authority." It is murmured and ; muttered there that Buccleuch and Cesford will break out on our Border,

why I know not.

Xhour-h it is a thajikless thing to meddle in other men's ofBces, I must let your lordship know what passes. I wrote long since of Cesford's foul outrage here, coming to WoUer with SO horse " and trumpett soT^Tiding," kiUiu" 2 men there and another at a town hard by. On 29tii May I wrote to your honour of Buccleuch coming to Greuehugh, a widow's house in Tynedale, seeking for some of t!ie Charletons, and not finding them he burned the house and corn, &c., iu it, and went his way. He had very near 300 men, and in S days after, he came to the Bowghthill, and killed 4 of the Charletons, very able and sufficient men, saying he would come back soon and kill more of them. I did not write particulars, thinking my lord warden had written to the Council, but as sufferance encourages more outra^'es, I presume to advertise it now. Cesford lately came in to murder some of the Stories, once by Wark, as far as TwyselL, and intended to come to Tweedmouth, but hearing that on If he 9'" instant being " Whyt.son Mondaye," they would be at a certain fair kept- at "Witwoode and would lie in a town called Eakell the night before, he came with 17 horse, and waited for them in the morning in the " higue strett " between Eakell and Hambleton, " to have killed th£m and all the fayre folkes passing by, but ■ as hape was, the two Stories fearing such a thing, traveled most p.irte of the night and so escaped him." He then went quietly by W'etwood town's end, where most of the fair looked upon him and many met him. Thence to a town called Newton, where he drank, and discharged all his men but two, sending the others home through "Chevett." With his two men he went to Pawston, where he drank and talked with " the Laird," telling him he would have the Stories' lives " ear it were long." All this time no fray rose, nor any man asked him why he did so 1 So are they encouraged by

CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPEES.

1595.

snSerance. I must also remind yonr honour that now is the time if you mean to have works repaired — for the year " is well spent" Also for the half years pay, " for mony is here alredy at a noble in the pounJe, and glad they can gett it so."

I would also desire yonr honour's pleasure touching the customer, who imposes new customs never taken, but referred to the Governor's discretion, as this — many Scottish men, our good neighbours in the ilerse, who supply our markets with beef, mutton, veal, pork, and all kind of " pullyn," &c., without which we could not live, and when corn is plenty the Governor allowed them now and then to buy a ' boule " of pease or beans or malt "as it fals out." Now the customer will have 5.i. on every boll, and the town 2d., and each of the porters at the two gates, " pence a pece "—so there is 9<Z. risen on a boll. Or if a neighbour comes to town to buy a " cloke cloth," or cloth for " a jerkyn and a payre of hose," he must pay custom never before heard of. Yet I do nothing tUJ your pleasure is known, but it will breed great inconvenience to the town, for they will not serve our markets if thu's dealt with. Berwick. Si;jned : Jhon Carey.

3 j?j). Addressed. Indorsed. Sican wafer signet.

Jime 24. 78. Captak Boyek to Sik Eobert Cecil.

I have presumed to send your honour this " platt" in hope yon will accept of my "indevor more kyndelyer then the connynge or plainenes of the thinge maie desearve by commendacions " : for first as moveil by W Henry Lock, I^presumed, and then on your honour's inclination for the "desirous knowledge of this place," and lastly Sir Robert Carey's favour to see it safe delivered, confirmed me. Bermck. Siijned : Wil. Boyer.

\ p. Addressed .• " To . . . Sir Eobert Cycell ..." Indorsed.

June 28. 79. Sckope to Borghley.

Eeceivin" the " bruite " both here and in Scotland of Bucclench's pur- pose to attack this frontier : though I think it is but to make himself strong while in disgrace with his sovereign, as I hear-I thought it my duty to order all under my rule to be ready on the burning of the beacons, or on_an hour's warning to repel invasion. And to give your lordship notice m case of roports^otherwise reaching you-and shall do so from time to time be-ing jou to acquaint her Jlajesty, and to vouchsafe her directions, and yoM o^ advice for my doings. Carlisle. Signed : Th. Scroope. I p. Addressed. Indorsed. July 2 80. John C.a.rey to Bct.ghley.

On receipt of your letter of the IS'^ June anj instructions, I called the Mayor, who said that as the alderman was it! London casting up accounts with the Queen's surveyors ,'eneral, to discharge arrearages, he could do nothing here, for all the accounts, &c., were Uiere. I sent for the customer, who said the same, that being r.-quired by the surveyors gene^ h^had sent up aU his accounts and reckonings to them. Thus I could say

"TouT honour savs there is order taken for the works in most needful places-but as yet 'we hear of none-and the year runs fas. on. -Nor i. any order yet come for the half year's pay as your honour ^"«=-

Your honour wishes to understand Buccleuchs and Lesioras quarrel, • u I rl } f n= ,n,l StoriHS It would be too tedious at large, but 1

CALENDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

fellowes," made in Tynedale and Redesdale, taking up the whole country, nearly beggaring them for ever. On complaint to the Queen and Council, there was some redress made with much ado and many meetings. Buccleuch and the Scotts made some " bragges and crackes," as that the country durst scarce take their own : but the Charletons, being the " sufficientest and ablest men " on the borders, not only took their own goods again, but encouraged their neighbours to do the like and not be afraid — " which hath ever synce stuckin Bucclughes stomack . . .Mary! he makes another quarrel), that long synce in a warr tyme, the Tyndale men should goe into his country, and there they tooke his grandfather and killed divers of his countrye, and that they took awaye his grandfathers shworde, and would never lett him have ytt synce. This sayth he is the quarrelL"

Cesford's with the Stories is — " About Lamas laste certen of Sesfordes men came to the persons of Wollers, he being at that tyme with my lorde leiftenaunte at Newcastle^at which tyme they stole all his sheep and other goodes he had, whereof he compleyned to York to the courte and to our wardens here ... till uppon a tyme seing he had loste all, and could by no means gett justice ... he gott certen of his frendes, and . . . got as many of Sesfordes owne sheepe as he had before loste." Where upon Cesford often sought to kiU him, so much that the poor man left all hs had in the country and came here to live in Berwick. Cesford then came one night to WoUer, killed 2 of his men, and at a town two miles off killed one called " The Leird Baggott" — cutting them all in pieces. The " Leird " had two brothers in law called Storyes, who got presently to horse, rode into Scot- land, met Cesford's shepherd, the only guide and cau.se of their brother's murder, and there killed and cut him in pieces — whereon this quarrel arose, and Cesford says he will have their lives.

For Scotland — there is appearance of great trouble : the King and Queen are little better than " severed " about the keeping of the young Prince. She and her party (which is very great) are at Edinburgh, and they will have the prince and the keeping of the castle. The King keeps at Stirling, Falkland and Lythquo, and thereabouts, and he and Mar will not "yeald to have him" *from Stirling. So the Queen's faction can not get him but by force. They have many men in readiness, and look for the fall of Jlar. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Stcan wafer siynet.

July 2. 81. The Master of the ORDNA^'CE to Borghley.

Complaining that whereas the castle, "cyttidell" and town of Carlisle, and storehouse there, are included under his charge of the north, yet he has no control of the pay of the gunners and officer of the storehouse there, and as their places fall void, the Queen grants the same for their lives, to "unmeete" and non-resident " partyes," "to the detriment of licr service. Therefore praying that he may have control and pay of Carlisle, as he has at Berwick, and will thenceforth answer to her Majesty for its efficiency, ic. 1 p. Broailsheet. Indorml : ^' 2 Julij 1.395. 'The information of the Master of the Ordonnance of Earwick," ic.

July 7. 82. Lord Herries to Scrope.

" I haitf resavit your lordschipis lettre this day fra your servand Gairis, quhairin your lordschip declairis thair is divers outragious attemptatis comittit be sum Scottismen agania the pepill within your lordschiois office sen your servand Richarde Bell depertit fra me." I shall be as 'ready to punish these as you would crave, but am much hindered in my office,"and

* Tlia pi-incf.

CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPEES. 39

1595.

it will be difficult without jour help. The course to he taken must be "advysitlie " set down between us, and if you have not "laser to travell," I would it pleased your deputy M' Carletoun " to cum speik me," that we might confer on the test remedy against breaches of peace, "qohilk divers my cuntrie men heir preiss to do, to your lordschipia trowbUl and my disgrace." Keferring farther matters to the bearer. Dmmfries. Sirmed ■ Herys. '

f p. Addressed. Wafer signet: a saltire — indistinct. July 8. 83. MusTKRs at Bekwick.

Defaults of the same taken before John Carey esq. deputy governor 8"" July 1.595.

Extracts.

Absentees with or without passports, from the companies of Carey, Sir William Reade, Robert CarvOl, William Selbye (and 4 other captains), the gunners, ordnance artificers, horsemen and pensioners ; in all 67. Signed ; John Crane.

-h PP- WrUteahij Crane. Indorsed.

July 15. 84. The Queen's rents fkom Eichmond, &c.

Estimate of her Majesty's rents and revenues of Eichmond, Durham

and Js'orthumberland at the Annunciation of Our Lady, 1595. William Gopton gent, general receiver of these counties. Richmond, 920/. ; Durham " cum ccci. pro decima Episcopatns," 12S5Z. 15s. JN'orthumberland, 760/. . . . 2,965/. 15s.

Fees, annuities, pensions, salaries, &c., for the first half year, 765/. 4^. Id. ; payments into receipt by " fermors" 47/. 15c/. ; to the Treasurer of Berwick for the first half year 2000/. . . - 2,812/. bs. \Qd.

Remain 153/. 9s. Id.

I p. Indorsed partlij hij Burghley.

July 15. 85. The Queen's kents from Yoekshiee.

Estimate of her Majesty's rents and revenues of the county of York

at the Annunciation of Our Lady 1595. Thomas Skidmore gent, deputy receiver of the county. Charge ^vith 700/. of the 10'" of the Archbishopric 4,714/. IGs. lOtf.

Fees, annuities, pensions, salaries, &c., for the first half year 666/. 12o-. Id. ; fees oiahelord president and Council of the North, 635/. 15^-. lO'f. ; pay- ments in the receipt, 2S1/. 15^-. 1(/. ; to the Treas- urer of Berwick for the half year, 3000/. . 4,534/. 2s. M.

[c. Julv IS.]'

, Remain 130/. IS^-. id.

The fees of the Lord President and Council are paid quarterly by the receiver. The annual free rents, rents reserved, and fee farms payable at .Alichaelm-as only, amount to 1,591/. ll.>-. Zd.

1 p. Indorsed partly bij Burghlen.

86. John Cakey to Bcsghley.

The news of these northern parts is " so oil' and on," that no certainty can be grounded on them. Though I am unwiUmg to deal in princes' affairs.

40 CALESTDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

as too high for my capacity, " yet being incoraged by the Scotts fashyone, who will liberally speake of their own prinses, I have taken a little libertye to apeake more boldlyer of them, then otherwise I would have thought had becomed me. . . . But thus much is surely both conteined and reported, both by the beste and worste sorte of Scotland," that if the Queen do not send an ambassador there in time, there will be such " garboyle" as will not be easily stayed, — perhaps the better for us, as they will be all " by the eares." The King and Queen are at great controversy for the young prince, and will not meet. He lies at Lythquo, Fawckland and Stirling, and she continually at Edinburgh with a great court. I dare not write all that is said or reported, but it is said that the King either has already, or will presently call Sir James Steward into favour again; and begins to say "that if his cossyn Frauncis Bodwell were with him, his nobilitye durste not doe as nowe they doe," and he is in so great a strait that if the Queen and her faction run (aa is espected) too violent a course against him, he will be forced to call Both- well and others in again.

The Scots are busyer than for many years on the East and Middle Marches, chiefly the Middle, taking " markett folkes horses and goodesin the daye tyme."

M' ii^hton came here on the 16"" with the half year's pay, Isut your warrant for the needful works is not. But I and iP Controller have set the quarriersand hewers of stone " a worke," and a quantity of stone is " wone " against its coming — and also a sufficient quantity of lime is ready. I send the defaults of last muster taken before the pay. Berwick. Date blanJc. Signed : Jhon Carey.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed : " 3P John Carey to my lord, from Barwick. Not dated. Eeceived the 23 of Julij 1505." Swan wafer signet.

July 23. 87. Supplies at Berwick.

A note how long the wheat rye and malt will serve at Berwick, with

what is sent from London. Wheat meal and rye, in all, 393 qrs. ; which will serve till S Decem- ber— 19 weeks, baking 20 qrs. weekly.

Malt, 112 qrs.; which will serve till 4'" September— G weeks, brewing IS qrs. weekly.

h p. Wiitttm by Vernon's derl: Indorsed h>j Burghley : "1595 fiom the xsiij of Jnlij."

July 23. 88. Ckaxe to Bukghley.

Sending him as directed a report of (1) the grain sent to Berwick since his last report on 31" May — also (2) what store of victual remains.

(1) Corn come, 46 qrs. o " kenninges " wheat; ICO qrs. 7 " kenninges " malt ; 53 qrs. beans.

(2) Store under ^F Vernon's charge :—

Wheat and meal 73 tjrs., will serve but for 3 weeks and "od" days, baking 20 qrs. weekly; malt, 112 qrs., will serve but for 6 weeks, brewing 18 qrs. weekly ; beans, 5S qrs.

Hops, 2700 lb. weight.

Beef and mutton — o.\;en 10; "weathers" 62.

" Other acates " — ling, 40 " coople " ; cod fish 160 (?) " coople."

Butter cheese and herrings — none. Signed: John Crane.

Note by BarghUy, ■^■r., on margin : ''26 July 1595 shipped for Barwyk. Wheat 150 qra. ; rye, 170 qrs."

2 pp. Written, by Crane. Indorsed. ■.

CALENDAK OF BOEDEK PAPEES. 41

1595. Jiily 24. 89. John Cakey to Btjkghley.

I received your two letters of the 16ti.— one that Captain Selby is comiDg with the "remayne of the two yeres pave," which will be very

welcome and that I survey and report the store of victuals : the other letter,

" a kinde of warrant " under your and my lord my father's hand, to set in hand the needful works. On this, informing the controller and surveyor of your pleasure, they asked M' Vernon's officers if they could serve the poorer sort of workmen with bread only, for they were to get no pay till Christmas— who replied they could not, for there was not enough to serve the garrison above 3 weeks. We will do what we caj to set forward the work, for the hard hewers, quarriers and masons are most of them soldiers, and victualled from the palace, but unless your lordship cause Vernon to send warrant to his officers to give tho " poorer sorte of laborers and such," a small allowance of bread, the works cannot well go forward, as they have no wages to buy it. "While writing I received a packet and letter inclosed under your and my father's hand, with a schedule of M' Vernon's debt to men of Lynn and Hull, of 9071. lis. S<1., for me to stay it out of his money due on the half year's pay— also that I and the Council here should view what victuals remain, what is lately come, and the chief lack, and inquire of his deputies (for he is not here), how they can supply the want and how soon, and certify you particularly in writing. , . , , , , .

I told you formerly, that Vernon always makes up his books and gets his money at the audit, at least 6 or 8 weeks before the pay comes here. So your honour's letter is too late, there is nothing to " stay "—nor any over- plus of monev with his officers. I have caused Sheperston, if Treasurer's officer to make a note of M' Vernon's book and how much is paid him, and inclose it, where you wiU see neither his officers or any other here receives " any penny." ...

As for callin'^ a council, aU the councillors of this town consist only in myself But I have called before me Yernon's officers, and caused M' Controller to survey the store of all kinds, as the mclosed note will show. His officers plainly tell me, they know of no supply coming, or that he can provide any, and they are almost undone themselves. M' Allen Barker, who has purveyed beef and mutton for long for the town, and very honestly, "ave up providing by Vernon's breaking covenant at Midsummer ; but at my intreaty continued at "his owne creditt " till now, when he has clean given up serving us, "and wiU nether medle nor make till some new bargain is made.' So we are in poor case. : ^ ^,^ ^ . . , ,

In vour letter of the IV- the postscript says that iP Vernon, being unable to come himself has told your honour he has directed " his cossyn William Vernon— who b'ein- here at the receipt of my letters, showed his " directions." They are only that^Villiam Vernon should try to get 60 qrs. of wheat from one who will not trust him a pennv, having lost too much by h.m already !

I hope on seeing my report, you will do me the favour to credit my certificates, being here and seeing the wanU of the place better than Sir John Selby and Sir William Keade who are nAver here, and care httle what

^On^'^SMIay thev said there was enough till ifichaelmas, and yet three parcels have come' in since then, and nothing like enough. Seemg such Lmediate need, I will certify the best sh.U I can think ot n. -One M' Jackson, an alderman here, has a quantity of ^e that ^e bought of a Chance ship and there is another ship load of " one M' Sydneys_ ot L^nn, with malt, and finding no market, he stored it here m houses. These thmgs, in extremity might be stayed by your warrant, and an order with it for pay- meut at Christmas.

Little Scottish news but constant ridings. ,,,,,■,

The pahce officers have been "even nowe agome,' to say that this day

CALENDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

1595.

they kill all the " beifes " they have, and it is the last provision they know of — the purveyor having given up. Berivick. Signed : Jhon Carey. 3ijy. Addressed. Indorsed hy Biirghleij.

July 28. 90. Ealph Asheton to Bueghley.

Having received of the two receivers of Yorkshire and Northumber- land the money allotted for the garrison of Berwick, &c., for the half year ended at the Annunciation of " the blessed Virgin Mary " last, I performed the payment according to your appointment, and inclose a brief of the receipts and payments, which could not have been done without receipt of JF Clopton's whole " remaine," which he paid to further her Majesty's service. He demanded from M' Bowes an abatement of 200L and more thereof, which M"' Bowes was to answer him for " diverse rentes and arerages, and such like reckeninges betwixt them." My proceedings were by the privity of one of jr Treasurer's men, according to your lordship's direction. " Leaver, my pore house." Signed : Ra. Asheton.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Inclosed in the above : —

Beckoning between Kobert Bowes esquire, treasurer of Berwick, and Ralph Asheton esquire, for the pay, ic, of the garrison for the first half year from 30 September 1594 tiU 24 March then next following.

Ej:tracts.

Treasure received by R. Asheton from the receivers of York (3000Z.) Northumberland (2000/.), Lincoln (1000/.), and M' Clopton's balance for Berwick at Mchaelmas 1-594 (66.5/. 3s. 11|^.), in aU 666.5/. 3s. U^d. Whereof, payments made and to be allowed by Bowes to Asheton, viz., Lord Hunsdon's fee as governor, 333/. 6s. Sd. ; John Carey esq. the marshal's fee, 130/. ; Robert Bowes as treasurer, 216/. 13.s. id. ; Sir John Selby knight porter, 92/. 6(>. 8d. ; John Carey as chamberlain, 47/. 6;;. $d. ; Richard Jtlns- grave esq., master of the Ordnance, 73/. ; M' John Crane comptroller, 32Z. ; Thomas Parkinson mayor, 100s. ; John Harding, customer, 100s. ; John Kelsterne, comptroller of customs, 50s. ; William Acrigge master mason and surveyor of works, 22/. ; Leonard Farley master carpenter, 9/. 6:). Other officers, gunners, pensioners, &c., 2 surgeons, 8/. 16s. each; Richard Clarke preacher, 25/. ; 2 tipstaffes, SI. 16s. each ; watchmen, &c., in all, 6629/. 8s. 9d.

Remaining in Vernon's hands, 35/. 15s. 2|rf.

2 pp. Written hg his clerk

July 29. 91. EoBEKT Verxon to Bukghley.

I send your honour (1) a note of the provisions issued to the garrison between Lady day and 24 July, and ^he remain, with what is shipped " from hence," (2) a note of the provisions bought in Norfolk last December, and at Hull in January, and how much is not paid, (3) a declaration of victuals delivered to the garrison and works in the half year ended last Lady dav, with my own entertainment, and how applied towards the Lynn and Hull provisions, showing that I have not converted a penny to my own nse, " excepte I have awnswered other money for yt." If your honour had joined Sir John Selby in your letter to M' John Carey, it " mighte have done me greate pleasure," for M' Carey is quite against me, " and if my displasinge lye in his hand, I am sure to have yt." He told my man Allen Barkour I was leaving the place at Lady day, but Barkour said he did not doubt me, and at Easter last I satisfied him, and he promised to serve the "arrison to Mid summer, as before, and then to Michaelmas in my name,

CALENDAE OF BORDEE PAPEES. 43

trusting me to bear any loss, with leave to give up on a month's warning to me. Sines then I have heard nothing contrary, till M' Carey writes that Barkour has stopped supply for me, " whereof I marvaile." For he is an honest and sufficient man, and would never have done it without persuasion. Eut I hdve written to know the certainty. I would beseech your lordship to prevent any want, for your letter to Barkour to continue his supply till Michaelmas, by which time you may consider either to relieve me, or for some other man for that place. Supied : Kobert Vernon.

li 2)p. Addressed. Indorsed hj Burghley. Wafer signet : q-uartered. "

Inclosed in the above : —

(Note of victuals, &c.) Extracts. Issued Midsummer quarter 1595 — Bread, beer, beans, "grosse wares," and fish, in all . . - ■ ■ 666Z. 10s. 9(1

From 23>^d June till 24"' July 1595. . . 205117.,-. 9d

Slaughtered till same date, 29 oxen, 22 weathers . 1591 6s.

Total, 1,0321 14s. M.

Eemaining at the same date — "Wheat, malt, beans, 9 oxen ; 1 bull 70s.; 6 kine, 60 weathers, ic, in all 6471 Is.

Shipped for Berwick 26='' July.— Wheat, 32s. a qr.,

rye at 20s., in aU . ■ • • -tOOl

Total, 1,0471 Is.

Expenditure from Lady day till 24 July . 1,0321 14s. Btl

Eemain, with what is sent from London . 1,0471 Is.

1 p. Indorsed : A note of the value of the victuals issued from Lady day, &.C., and of the remain.

July . 92. Gaeriso.x, &c., of Bkkwics.

Extracts. The number of soldiers, under S captains . . 500

Horsemen, pensioners, &c, of the old garrison . . 201

Officers that receive fees— Lord Governor, ix. . . 21

1. p. Written hij Burgldey's teo-dary. Iwlorsed hj Buroldey : "July 1595. Such as have victuals."

Awz. 2. 93. ScROPE TO Burghlsy.

Havin- stopned a vagrant pass^ager calling himself ilanington, who told me that he "and others landed at Leith in Scotland, and lor proof showed me a pas.^port signed by the Provost ahd three burgesses of Edinburgh —I suspec^in- it to be counterfeit, sent it to M'' Lowes servant ■Sicholson lyin- in Ediubursh. He has this day returned it saying it is forged, " and that'he leameth^ome eviO in the man." At taking, he had another let.er from one Osburne of the town of Ayr in bcotland to one Jefferey Cooke fish- moi.-r in West Chester,— wherein among other things, it is said that Angus Maconell lord of Kintyre in Scotland had " listed 6000 men and " bonnen for Ireland which forces it seems from Nicholsons letter, are designed to spoil 'he isle of ilan— for this lord of Kintyre and Donell and other reoels there, are at sea for that purpose. Besides certifying your lordship, I have sent notice to the deputy governor of Man to be on his guard. Tne passenger is impudent and arrogant and I c-an get nothing ot worth out ot him. I

CALENDAE OF BORDEE PAPEES.

1595.

pray your further instructions what to do with him. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

Aug. 2. 94. Jomi Caeey to Burghley.

I have your letter of the 19"' July by one Richard Atkyus a servant of W Roger Manners, for payment to him and one Edward Trepp of 536?. due them for victuals delivered to M''Ve;non on the Council's letters. I have told him, as I formerly did your honour, that I can do him no good, for M'' Vernon always receives payment for the whole charge of his book at the audit. Yet this poor gentleman, whose estate it seems "standes uppon yt," hearing Captain Selby was coming down with the balance of the two years' pay, and thinking Vernon had some " good " in that, desired to " staye " Selb/s coming. When he did come, I made Sheperston make up Vernon's reckonings, and show me if he had anything due, when I would if I could, have satisfied this gentleman somewhat. But there u on the reckoning little or nothing due Vernon ; so I thought it better to return the gentleman to you again, than keep him here at charges. I find his estate so ill that I am fain to lend him 51., little as I can spare it, to help his journey, referring his hard estate to your consideration. Berwick. Signed : Jhon Carey. 1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet.

Au'T. 3. 95. EicuiRD S^niTE's requests.

Demands for the victualling of Berwick.

1. The garrison to be tied to take all their provision from the victualler, who has it ready, so the soldier can only " vent " it elsewhere, which " I think will avail him nothing."

2. All the workmen under the victualler to be in the Queen's pay, for if he is charged with them, he will make no profit.

3. The Queen to bear all losses at sea by the enemy or tempest.

4. Also the repairs of the palace, storehouses and windmills.

5. If the officer keep " cartes and horses," to be allowed for them as others in Berwick are.

6. That consideration be had of the present dearth, till easier rates return.

7. That as much money shall be imprested to the officer at his entry, as the value of the whole provisions always to be in store shall come to. Kot signed.

\p. Sm/fs rtrriiing. Indorsed ■■ "3 Aug. 1595. Requests of JFSwifte."

Au", 6. 96. John Carey to Burghley. "*^

Having received the letter or rather a warrant under your and my father's hand of IC'-" July, I and the controller have set the works in hand as speedily as may be. Though it is rather late in coming, we shall do what we can : "desiring your honour that iP Vernon will cause his officers to supply a little allowance of bread to the labourers.

We were in hard state for victuals till last Monday the 4"", " two little pretty bottes" came in, laden they say from London by M' Vernon with 150 qrs. rye, and 150 qrs. wheat, and malt is shortly expected, of which we live in hope, or shall soon lack our drink. On Tuesday the 5'-* there came another little boat from Lynn of M' Sydnames with " seaven score " qrs. peas and rye for the market, so we are pretty well stored till after Michaelmas.

Captain Selby is come with the balance of the two years' pay, but M' Ashton having gone to his own country, it is yet unpaid. But I have written twice by post for him and he is daily expected.

CALENDAR OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

45

1595.

The " steires and broylles " in Scotland are smothered for a time, but troables are daily looked for by the " best sorte " there. Berwick. Siijned : Jhon Carey.

li pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Small armorial tcafer signet.

Aug. 7. 97. The Bishop of Durham, &c., to Huntingdon.

Finding, on conference among 0L.-<;elve3, and with the best gentlemen here and in Northumberland, also by the multitude of offenders presented before as at the Assizes and gaol delivery, that the outlaws of both Borders, and other notorious thieves, are determined to make this bishopric an open spoil and prey, to the impoverishing of the poorer sort, and endangering such of the better sort as are able and willing to repress them : we presume to advertise you thereof, craving also your assistance for speedy redress accordin" to your long experience and high authority, presuming also to give our opinions for timely reformation " before the sore shall becom incarable." 1. That it would please yon to direct letters to the wardens, especially of the Middle and West Marches, for extraordinary care in taking order with their officers of Bewcastle, Gilsland, Redesdale, Tynedale, itc, for better readiness to resist and pursue inroaders or suspicious passers by. 2. To move the Privy Council for some extra forces to be laid where usual, or at least com- mand the wardens to observe more duly the days of truce, and execution of justice — the neglect whereof has bred wonderful boldness in the S<:ots, and in our illdisposed neighbours of Northumberland, Cumberland, Westmorland "and this county," to J9in with then in alliance in their worst confederacies. " Whereof a great prezumpcion at the bar this presente A.s.size.'^, was publiqely shewen by oue David Armstrong alias Bangtaill, a Scot, and a notorious owtlaw, who being apprehended and brought in by M' Wiiham Fenwick of Walliugton upon your lordshipes commaandement, arrained and found guiltie of eight severall felonies, feared not to threaten il' Fenwick, that though he were the best beloved gentleman of his cian, yet his heeles should be lifted and tnrned up to the sky for bringing him, being a Scot, to be tried here before us ! Also that he the said Armstrong would kis the bar when he went from yt, and vow that never any Scot should be so brought in and dealt with againe." 3. To order the justices strictly to revive the good orders for watches of all kinds, " slough houndes," following hue and cry, and putting themselves and servants in better order for service under their tenores and leases, " in these remote partes." We had intended to lay these particulars before their lordships, but resolved first to " bemoan " the wretched condition of this country to your lordship, not doubting that we shall shortly hear of some good course taken by you for reformation of these evils. At the Assizes at Duresm. Stfjned : Tobie Duresm., Ra. Eure, Fr. Beaumont, Edw. Drewe.

^ pp. Corrected hj the hishop. Addressed: " To the right honorable our very gooil lorde, the Earle of Huntingdon, lorde lieutenant and lord president in the northe." Indorsed : B. ,of Durham, L. Eure, Justice Beanmond, Serjeant Drewe. . . ." Wafer siijnet : a shield — Durham, impalimj a ipxartered coat {Mathew !). 1505 at top.

Aug. 8. 98. Estimate for Berwick.

Estimate how long the victuals at Berwick, with what is sent, and

needful to be sent, will last from "24 July to "HaUontide."

Extracts.

A note of the provisions there, and the loss on each article, e.ij., 104

oxen, weight, 400 Ihs. a piece, bought at 4/. 10s., loss on each 20i-. ; loS

"mattons^ 40 lbs. a piece, at 10s. and 12s., loss on each 6*., &c

CALENDAE OF BOEDEE PAPEES.

1595.

1pp. Broadsheet. Written hj Vernon's derJc, annotated hij Burr;}dey,Kho adds on flyleaf, calculations of Vernon's losses at sea, ^-c. Indorsed: " 8 Aug. 1595. An estimate for xiiij weekes endinge primo I7ovembris.' B// Burghley : " for vitellyng at Barwyk, Vernon."

Aug. 9. 99. SCROPE TO BUEGHLEY.

Your lordship knows the trouble intended by Buccleuoh to this office, though his complaints against me are unfounded as will appear on trial. The inclosed letter from Lord Berries shows his difficulty in doing justice, and I therefore beg your lordship and the Council to move her Majesty for some companies, either of horsemen or of the foot of Berwick, as in like times of necessity, \vith an early reply, as the nights are waxing long. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

" I have onely written to my lord Chamberlen herein, who I trust at your takinge notice of so muche, will repaire to your lordship and yeild the travell and favour I requier his lordship to do."

1 p. Postscript holograph. Addressed Indorsed.

Inclosed in the above : —

(Berries to Scrope.)

Acknowledging his letter of complaint, and would gladly make redress, but for great hindrances — e.g., many offenders in the rolls presented by Richard Bell, depend ou the Laird Johnston and are " exemit " from his jurisdiction — others are stirred up by evil inclined people in Scrope's own wardenry, to be worse against their quiet neighbours than they would be. Be has written to the King, and expects speedy answer.

Saving received a number of complaints from Scrope's servant, he will shortly send some counter complaints, when they may appoint to meet and settle some of these, " to encurage trew men and abate the pryde of the insolent corrupt bordour men. . . . Drumfreis the ferde day off August 1595." Signed : B.&vjs.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Aug. 9. 100. Verson to Burghley.

I have bought malt to serve till " Ballontid " to be shipped at Welles in Norfolk "before the later ende of the next weeke" — and also ordered butter and cheese. Only " biffe and mutton " is now needful, and I doubt not my man Allen Barker will furnish it till Michaelmas. I look to hear from him or sOme other daily.

Beseeching your honour to consider my great lo.sses, for which I will not be ungrateful. Signed : Robert Vernou.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed hij Burghley.

Au.;:. 9. 101. Eichard Swipte to Burghley.

I am " fearefull " to enter into this service, except on conditions whereby I may discharge it sufficiently. I have long had little to do, and would be glad to be employed to do myself some good, " or elles no hurt."

But at present rates, I see little chance of doing any good. For it will be 9 months after the officer's entry, before he gets paid for his deliveries, and then to provide "a staple" of provision for 1000 men for a year, while the covenant is for 1500, will take 7000Z. or SOOO/. at old prices, io. I think you will find " few able, and none willing," to bear the burden.

Wherefore I pray your lordship, if the new officer is not to be set up " with

CALENDAE OF BOEDER PAPEES. 47

■ 1595.

as good a stock as JP Teraon " — and without it I dare not venture — I may with your favour cease to proceed farther therin. Signed: Rich. Ssvifte. f p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed by Burgkley.

Aug. 11. 102. The Bishop of DuRHAii to Sie Pu Cecil.

" Eight honorable, my dutie acknowledrjed with speciall thankes for all the contentes and circumstances of your letter, which I receaved the third of this present : wheninto I could not soner retourne answere, partly because the justices of Assise and my selfe with the rest had our handes full to deliver the gaole of mauie famous infamous malefactors both Scottes and Englisshe : and partely because he to whome I had geven the notes of my sermon preached on Palmes Sondaie last before her Majestie, was not in these partes untill the is"" of this instant. Jfowe at the last, thou^he some- what longe, first, to theicepcion taken against my spe.aches by iP Fowles the King of Scottes his messenger, as if in my saide sermon I had used some bitter invective against Scottes and Scotland : I sale, that nnder your honorable reformacion, by his leave it is 3 mere imputacion ; neither the nation being once named by me, nor anie man of that countrey, saving that I reported JP James Lowson sometyme the superintendent of Edenbrough, manie yeares agoe to have shewed me an olde booke written in parchment, wherein was conteined this odd prophecie as he termed it — Angli quia proditioni, ehrietaii, Ivxurix, et negligeniix domus Dei dediti sunt, prima per Danes, secundo per Nonrmannos, tertio per Scoios (qui vilUsimi repu- tantur) erunt conierendi. In the citing and expounding of which sentence, I protest unto your honor, because I would avoyde offence, I did leave out Scotos and supplied it by the word Alios. I added, that albeit my selfe were no prophet, ne the sonue of a prophet, nor gave anie credit to suche olde said sawes : yet if the former sinnes of our ancestors did procure diverse invasions and conquestes of this kingdome, I did not see, but that the same transgressions remaning amonge us, that provoked Gods vengeance against them, the like eventes monght light upon us or our posteritia as Gregorie saith, Quos una adpa daudit, una pivna tenet. To the which effecte I alleaged this reproof of our owne nation out of Gildas onr contryman — Britones propter avaritiam et rapinam procerum, propter iniquitatem et injustitiam judicum, propter desidiam predicationis episcoporrum, propter luxuriam et rnalos mores popiui, patriam perdidisse. "Whemppon I most earnestly besought all estates to repent and amend their lives, according to my text, Phil. i. 27 (Let your conversation be worthie of the gospell of Christ). Using that comminacion of our Saviour in the 13 of Luke— Nisi pcenitentiam egerilis, omnes similiter peribitis ; and that exhortacion of Samuel, Lib. i. c. 12. 'Feare ye the Lord and serve him in synceritie of heart, and consider howe great things he hath done for you ; but if yon shall still doe wickedly, both you and your prince shall perisshe;' and here woe worthe (quoth I)' those wicked subjectes, who by their graceless and godlesse conversacion drawe such dangers, not upon them selves only, bat upon their princes withall, especially suche a prince as God hath blessed us with, amonge and above all other nations, a most gratious instrument of his glorie, a most alorious ornament of the Christian worlde : whome Almightie God longe preserve and prosper to rule and raigne over us. ^

"In all this what falte can myne accuser fynde ? either in the mater or the forme of doctrine? Shall it not be lawfull for Gods minister to tell Israel of his sinnes and the house of Jacob of bis offences? Shall not the watchman when he seeth the sworde hanging, the shepherd when he per- ceaveth the wolpho comminT, have libertie to open his mouthe for them that be dumbe in the cause 'of all the children of destmccion ? Shall we not dare to sale with Job, Deus facit hijpocritam regnare propter peccata populi ; or to affirme with Ecclesiasticus, that Regnum de gente in geniem

CALENDAE OF BOEDEK PAPEES.

1595.

transfertuT propter injurias, injustitias, contumdias et diversos dolos ? If it beseme not a preacher and chefely a bishop